A man has been charged with assault as police continue to look into the death of a man outside a rural Wairarapa address.
On Sunday morning, police were called to Te Kopi Rd in Te Whiti, east of Carterton and south of Masterton, after a man was found dead outside an address.
Area Commander Inspector Scott Miller said investigators have discovered the man was assaulted in a separate incident before his death.
He said a 32-year-old Masterton man is due to appear in the Masterton District Court tomorrow, charged with assault.
No charges directly relating to the homicide investigation have been laid, Miller pointed out.
The man was known to the occupants of the Te Kopi Rd address. Three people at the address continue to help investigators with their inquiries.
Miller said the investigation team was "following positive lines of inquiry" and said the incident "is not a random attack".
Investigators said other members of the community aren't in danger.
A scene examination will continue into tomorrow, along with a wider search of the property.
"Areas of interest within the property are extensive and it will take time to complete a thorough examination," Miller said.
A scene guard will remain in place for the week.
Miller said investigators still aren't in a position to release any details of the victim. A post-mortem is due to be completed tomorrow.
Homicide 'unusual for Carterton' - mayor
"This is unusual for Carterton, I think most people are shocked," Carterton Mayor Ron Mark told 1News earlier today.
"I've had a briefing from the area commander, and they're specifically looking at that residence and the people that were there," Mark said.
Anyone with information which could help the investigation is asked to contact the police on 105.
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