Man killed doing good deed for his mate

Photo / Sarah Ivey

Murder victim Jack John Davis was laid to rest in a covered casket this week. His killer left his family no choice.

A friend has revealed the 30-year-old from Mangere was violently attacked with a hoe after going north to help his alleged murderer shift house.

The favour, police allege, was repaid with extreme brutality.

Pieces of Davis' body were found in Northland bush on February 25, near the Wairakau Stream walking track on the northern side of Whangaroa harbour.

Police have confirmed Davis knew his alleged killer. They have conducted scene investigations on three Northland sites - the bush track, the accused's home and a rural home in Salvation Rd, Totara North.

A 33-year-old from the Kaeo area appeared in Kaikohe District Court on Thursday charged with murdering Davis, the same day Davis' family buried him. The man was remanded in custody until March 28.

Police are appealing for anyone who can identify two men who visited the Salvation Rd property on February 24, to buy a motorbike. Call the Operation Salvation team on (09) 407 9211.