Man died in 'ferocious attack' in bed

Matthew Hall performing on stage with his band Backyard Burial. Photo / Supplied

A massive police hunt has been launched for the killer of a man who was the victim of a "ferocious" stabbing attack at his Wellington home.

The body of Matthew John Hall, 35, was found in his Johnsonville flat about 6.15pm on Tuesday.

Police said that an autopsy showed he died of multiple stab wounds following a "ferocious" attack while he was in bed.

Mr Hall was the lead singer in death metal band named Backyard Burial and went by the stage name "Blaps Warmonger".

Tributes to Mr Hall have been left on the band's Facebook page, with one saying he was "head brewer, scholar, vocalist and best friend to many".

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thornton said he had "no doubt" someone had seen a person or people either enter or leave Mr Hall's property and called for any witnesses to come forward.

Police were in the early stages of their enquiries and spent much of today speaking to Mr Hall's friends, family and associates, Mr Thornton said.

"As part of the investigation we have profiled Matthew's background, where he worked, all his friends and associates and we are taking that into consideration," he said.

Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen a person or people entering or leaving Mr Hall's home at 118 Broderick Rd, Johnsonville, between midday Monday, February 14 and 6pm Tuesday, February 15, just before police were called.

Anyone with any information should phone 0508 BRODERICK (0508 276 337).

- NZ Herald staff and NZPA