Police are looking for a white 2003 Toyota, registration LEQ895, they believe was owned by a man who was found dead on a Christchurch street in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves of Canterbury CIB told media the man was found on the street but wouldn't confirm what his injuries were. She did confirm he was a local Christchurch man.
Between 30 and 40 detectives are working on the case and there would be a heavy police presence in the area, but residents should not be concerned for their safety, she said.
The 38-year-old man was found dead at 2:28am on Carisbrooke Street, near Portchester Street, in the Christchurch suburb of Aranui.
Det Insp Reeves said there are cordons in place while the scene examination takes place. Carisbrooke Street is also currently blocked.
"Our focus is now on establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident and notifying and supporting the victim's family at this difficult time," she said.
Det Insp Reeves confirmed police are not currently able to release details of the man who died, but they will look to do so in "due course".
"We are continuing to make enquiries, but also want to encourage anyone with information to get in contact with us."
Police are also encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to come forward.
"Police would like to hear from anyone who heard or saw anything unusual in and around Carisbrooke Street around 2am this morning, including anyone with CCTV footage which could assist with the investigation," Det Insp Reeves said.
"Please quote Operation Walter or 240104/2142. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has information that could assist, is urged to contact Police on 105 or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 clicking 'Update Report'.
"Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111."
