Police have confirmed the Stanbury Ave crime scene investigation is part of an ongoing homicide inquiry.

25-year-old Shayne Heappey died in Christchurch Hospital on Saturday night after he was dropped off with serious injuries.

Residents of Somerfield's Stanbury Ave have seen armed police guarding a cordoned-off house since early yesterday afternoon.

They say the police presence has really picked up in the last hour - with the road being closed off and a tent erected outside the property.

The home is believed to belong to an elderly couple.

Detective Inspector Corrie Parnell says police and forensic specialists are currently carrying out an investigation into the Stanbury Ave house.

Another property in Russley's Oakhurst Place will also be investigated today.