Accessory charges laid in relation to the killing of Hutt Valley man

Photo / File

Two people have been arrested and charged with accessory after the fact to murder in relation to the killing of Matthew Stevens.

Police said a 27-year-old male and a 27-year-old female appeared in the Hutt Valley District Court this morning and both were remanded in custody until January 26.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Sears Said: "We continue to make good progress in our efforts to identify the person or persons responsible for the murder of Matthew Stevens."

"Both these people are connected to the Oxford Terrace property which has been the subject of an extensive scene examination."

Mr Stevens, 32, was last seen buying a six-pack of beer at a Lower Hutt supermarket at 10.30pm on November 27.

His body was found the next morning near his white Toyota Corolla in thick bush on a steep slope off Paekakariki Hill Road about 35 kms away.

Police at first thought his car had been abandoned but the inquiry was upgraded to a homicide when a post mortem examination showed that Mr Stevens had died of stab wounds to his torso.

Anyone with information should contact the Operation Vintage team by calling (04) 381 2000.

Information can also be provided anonymously via the Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.