Homicide investigation launched after Napier man found dead near Palmerston North

The man had been missing for more than two weeks. Photo / Google Maps

Police have launched a homicide investigation after the body of a Napier man was found on the grounds of a residential address near Palmerston North.

The man's grieving partner has posted touching tributes to him online, saying his death has left her "soulless without my soulmate".

The body of the man, believed to be in his 20s, was located on Friday night in the small town of Bunnythorpe.

It is believed the man had been missing for than two weeks.

A police spokeswoman said a post mortem of the body was completed on Sunday and due to the results of the post mortem, the homicide investigation was launched.

"The man sustained serious injuries and while we are not able to detail the exact injuries we are determined to find those responsible for his death.

"A scene examination of the property where his body was found and the surrounding areas is ongoing and could be for the next couple of days", she said.

His partner, who had known him for 10 years, said on Facebook she wished she was the one who had found him.

"I'm soulless without my soulmate by my side."

On Sunday police said they had cause for "considerable concern" about the circumstances surrounding the man's death.

Manawatu Area Investigations Manager Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Sheridan said while formal identification was still to be carried out, police believed they knew the identity of the man.

"We are carefully and methodically following our processes.

"At this stage we are confident we know who this person is, however there is a formal procedure that must be followed," Sheridan said.

Police were able to allow the man's family to be present while his body was taken from the property.

"This was very important to his whanau and we were pleased we could make this happen."