A man whose death sparked a homicide investigation after he was found unresponsive outside a Lower Hutt property last week has been named.

Police are still working to understand 29-year-old Nathanial Sturmey’s movements before his death on Thursday.

Meanwhile, loved ones have shared news of his death and tangi details online.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved son, partner, dad, brother and friend, Nathaniel ‘Geroc’ Sturmey,” one person posted.

The whānau asked that no alcohol, colours or patches be brought on to the marae grounds.

Nathaniel Sturmey, 29, died on April 9th.

“We are aware there is a lot of sensitive information being shared regarding Nathaniel’s passing. We kindly ask that this is not brought into this space. Our focus is on honouring him and giving him the send-off he deserves.”

At 8.15am on Thursday, police received a report of a man on the ground on Malone Rd, Lower Hutt.

The immediate area was cordoned off, and the case was escalated to a homicide investigation.

There will continue to be an increased police presence in the Lower Hutt area, Detective Inspector Jamie Woods said.

“The scene examination has been completed, and police are working to understand Mr Sturmey’s movements in the hours preceding his death.

“We acknowledge this is an incredibly difficult time for Mr Sturmey’s family and support is being provided.”

Police are appealing to the public for information about the incident, and particularly interested in any suspicious activity in the Waterloo, Lower Hutt area between the hours of 10pm on April 8 and 3am April 9.

Anyone with information that might help police can go online or call 105, quoting reference number 260409/9927.

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

Sammy Carter is a journalist for the New Zealand Herald covering news in the Wellington region. She has previously worked at the Rotorua Daily Post.