Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKER
Northland police have launched a homicide enquiry after ambulance officers discovered a man's body in Parakao on Friday.
The man's death, at a rural property off Mangakahia Road, about 40 kilometres west of Whangārei, was initially treated as unexplained.
However, Detective Senior Sergeant Michelle Harris said police now believe the 55-year-old was the victim of foul play.
A post mortem examination is due to be completed on Monday, which would confirm the cause of death.
She said police want to hear from anyone who saw a blue and silver Mitsubishi L200 ute in the area that afternoon or evening.
She also wanted to hear from anyone who saw a man walking along State Highway 14 on Friday afternoon and evening.
Harris also wants any CCTV or dashcam footage from Mangakahia Road, Otaika Valley Road and State Highway 14.
"We understand this is an unsettling time for the community and we are working hard to establish what has happened," Harris said.
