Fisherman to face more charges after man's death

A fisherman charged with assaulting a Nelson man in Motueka will face further charges after the man died at the weekend.

Bart Jade Phillipson, 44, suffered critical head injuries after an altercation with 30-year-old Scott Anthony Harting on Friday.

Mr Phillipson died about 11am on Sunday at Nelson Hospital after his life support was turned off.

Harting will appear in Nelson District Court today and face further charges, Detective Sergeant Kevin Tiernan said. Police will decide by this afternoon's court appearance what those charges will be, he said.

Police said Mr Phillipson and his partner travelled from Blenheim to Motueka early on Friday.

When they arrived there was an altercation between the couple and Mr Phillipson's sister and Harting, who lived at the home.

Mr Phillipson's sister was also charged with assault following the altercation and is also due to appear in court today.

It is understood the incident followed an argument about a debt.

- NZPA