Man charged with murder of missing man

A 26-year-old man has been charged with murder after police received new information on the disappearance of a Lower Hutt man more than three years ago.

Harold Alamoti Taipa Skudder, 38, was reported missing by his mother in February 2008.

He was last seen in December 2006. His body has not been found.

New information from the public had led to the arrest, Wellington police district field crime manager Detective Inspector Shane Cotter said.

"Because of its merit, we've been able to progress this case significantly, resulting in an arrest today," he said.

Police were examining a Lower Hutt property and the investigation was ongoing.

"Though we have made an arrest, I am sure there are people out there in the community that know about Harry's disappearance. I urge those people to come forward," Mr Cotter said.

Anyone with information on Mr Skudder's disappearance is asked to contact Lower Hutt police or the anonymous police Crime Stoppers line.

The 26-year-old will appear in Lower Hutt District Court today.

- NZPA