Christchurch Police have released the name of the man killed in a homicide in Rangiora on Friday.
He was Tony John Lochhead, aged 51, of Rangiora.
Mr Lochhead was a resident of the dwelling in White Street, Rangiora, where an altercation is believed to have taken place on Friday evening.
The body of the deceased was removed from the scene last night, and a post-mortem examination conducted this morning. Police are not releasing any details of the post-mortem findings at this stage.
Detective Inspector David Long says the investigation into the incident is continuing, with a scene examination at the White Street property expected to continue until tomorrow. Police have also been speaking to a number of persons of interest today.
Several people have reported sightings of the silver Subaru which was abandoned near the motorway south of Rangiora shortly after the incident, and which Police believe may have been involved.
"We believe it is possible that one or more occupants of that vehicle has hitch-hiked towards Christchurch after leaving the vehicle," says Detective Inspector Long.
"We would like to hear are from any member of the public who picked up a hitch-hiker on or near the motorway between the Kaiapoi-Rangiora area and Christchurch, between about 9.30 and 10.30 on Friday night."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Christchurch police on (03) 3637400.
Alternatively, to provide information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS