A third person has been arrested in relation to the murder of a man who was found dead down a bank in Whakatāne last month.
Police launched a murder investigation after Claude Te Rangiatahua Takao, 47, was found dead on June 1.
Last month, it was announced a 31-year-old and a 14-year-old had been arrested and charged in relation to Takao's murder.
In an update on Tuesday morning, police confirmed a 34-year-old man has been arrested and charged with aggravated robbery, murder and two charges of kidnapping.
He was due to appear in the Rotorua District Court on Tuesday.
"Police want to assure people that anyone who had a part in or assisted those involved in the murder, kidnapping or robbery of Mr Takao will be held to account," a spokesperson said.
Anyone with information is urged to come forward, with police saying the homicide investigation is still ongoing.
"If you have any information that may assist police with our enquiries, please contact police on 105 or online via https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using update report," the spokesperson said.
"Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Please reference file number: 230531/6168."
