Unexplained death on Matakana Island now a suspected homicide

The unexplained death of a man on Matakana Island on New Year's Day is now being treated as a homicide.

Police were alerted to the 22-year-old's sudden death at around 2pm on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, acting Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlinson confirmed the death is being treated as a homicide and an investigation has been launched.

"Police will be in a position to release the victim's name in the coming days once all family have been advised," he said in a statement.

The cause of death has not been released but the post-mortem has been completed.

A map showing the location of Matakana Island.
Photo credit: Newshub.

Anyone with information is urged to get in touch with Tauranga police on (07) 577 4300, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Snr Sgt Rawlinson said they're particularly looking to speak to those who were at a temporary campground on Matakana Point Rd over New Year's Eve and Day.

Only around 250 people live on the island, which is just north of Tauranga.

Newshub.