Mr Van Kempen couldn't answer any more questions but did confirm to the Rotorua Daily Post it could be weeks before the pathology test results were known.
The man's name has not yet been released by police.
The man's grieving partner, who asked not to be named, said she was "heart broken".
She described the man as a "loving humble family man".
She said they had been together for nearly two years but grew up together and had known each other all their lives.
"We were in love."
The woman said her partner had only been released from prison six days before he died but he had a positive outlook and was ready to lead a new life.
"He described training as his new drug."
The pair didn't have children together but it was something they had talked about.
"He wanted to start a family, work, train and live a normal, healthy, balanced lifestyle."
"He was so cheeky, funny and smart. He knew how to put a smile on my face and cheer me up every time. He always made me laugh. That's what I loved the most about him and his loving, kind, beautiful heart. He was caring and always there to help anyone."
She said she was beyond shocked to find out he had died.
The man's funeral was held on Saturday and he was buried at Kauae Cemetery.
