Police want to thank the public for calls made to the crime show Police Ten-7 last week relating to a homicide in Otaki.
The programme featured the case of Huntly man Edward Tahakura and an appeal for three people who gave his hitchhiking offender a ride.
Detective Sergeant Gary Milligan who is leading the investigation says: "We received four calls which may seem like a small number but the information from these calls has been invaluable. The investigation team are grateful for the information provided from the public and we are still receiving a few calls. This shows that the public are keen to help us with our inquiries."
Officers have now located and spoken to the truck driver who gave the offender a ride which leaves two drivers Police want to speak to.
"We still want to hear from the two remaining drivers who gave the offender a ride. These drivers are not in any trouble; we need to speak to them to piece together the offender's movements," says Detective Sergeant Milligan.
The 24-year-old male offender is described as being of Maori descent, of medium build, approximately 1.8 metres tall with closely shaven black hair.
Anyone with information can contact Detective Sergeant Milligan on (06) 351 3781. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.