A post-mortem examination is due to be conducted today on the body of a boy which was located on Waitarere beach yesterday.
Arrangements for formal identification are also being made.
Around 20 investigators are currently working on the enquiry, which will continue over the weekend.
The scene examination at Waitarere beach is also expected to continue into the weekend.
The boy’s body was removed from the scene last night, along with a number of items of interest. Police will not be disclosing what those items are at this time.
“While this is a homicide inquiry given the suspicious circumstances involved, we are keeping an open mind about exactly what has occurred,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Forlong.
“We are however building a good picture of the events which led to the boy’s death and it is important for the community in Waitarere to know that we do not believe there is any wider risk involved.
“We are aware that there is some speculation and rumour regarding the tragic events of the last few days.
“The purpose of the investigation is to establish the facts, and methodically gather all the information and evidence needed.
“We still want to hear from anyone who saw Alex Fisher or his brother Eric. We also still need members of the community in Waitarere to let us know about anything suspicious or unusual on their properties.
“We are mindful that the community is very shocked at the events of this week.
“We will obtain all the information we need for the Coronial process and any possible judicial process which may follow, and ultimately establish the facts for the family and wider community.” said Mr Forlong.
END
Issued by Grant Ogilvie, PNHQ media team.