Two people have been arrested and charged with the murder of a south Canterbury man.
Anaru Moana, 37, hasn't been seen since December 20, 2021, when he disappeared several hours after his mother died of cancer in a hospice in the town of Waimate.
He was last seen at his home in Mary St by his niece at about 6:30am. His phone and bank cards also disappeared.
Police said they've searched extensively for Moana to locate him and "hold people to account". This has included searches of waterways in the Waitaki and Waimate areas, with help from the Police National Dive Squad.
In an update on Tuesday afternoon, police said they had arrested and charged two people.
A 40-year-old man is due to appear in the Dunedin District Court on Tuesday charged with murder, wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and kidnapping.
A 32-year-old man is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court on Wednesday, also charged with murder, wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, kidnapping, and possession of methamphetamine for supply.
Detective Inspector Joel Syme said while police haven't yet found Moana's body, it's pleasing to have people before the courts in relation to his death.
"We hope that having two people charged with Anaru's death will give some comfort to the whānau, however we know how important locating their loved one is, so this will remain a priority focus for the team," he said.
The investigation is ongoing and police are still appealing for information about Moana's death and any information on where he might be.
People are asked to contact police on 105 and quote file number 211223/0992. Information can be passed anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org.
