A homicide investigation is continuing into the death of a man on 9 May, at a rural property in Parakao.

Police can today name the victim as Geoffrey Wayne Ware, aged 55, who lived at the Mangakahia Road address.

“We would like to extend our condolences to Mr Ware’s whānau and loved ones at this difficult time,” Detective Senior Sergeant Michelle Harris, from Whangarei Police, says.

A post mortem has been completed and the ‘Operation Cossar’ enquiry team is making good progress.

“We are following some strong lines of enquiry” Detective Senior Sergeant Harris says.

“There has been an excellent response to our appeal released on Monday and I would like to acknowledge the public for their assistance.”

Police are urging anyone else with information to get in touch.

“We are particularly seeking information and sightings in the area of Mangakahia Road, Otaika Valley Road and State Highway 14 towards Whangārei, between 2pm and 8pm on Friday May 9, of a 1999 blue and silver Mitsubishi L200 ute and of a man reportedly seen walking along SH14 that afternoon and evening,” Detective Senior Sergeant Harris says.

“Our investigation team is working hard to establish what happened,” Detective Senior Sergeant Harris says. “We want to reassure the community we are doing everything we can to hold the person responsible to account.”

Anyone with information is asked to make a report online, or by calling 105.

Please quote the reference number 250509/6749.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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