Three arrested over Hamilton death

Police have arrested three people following a fatal clash at a Hamilton house early yesterday.

Police launched a homicide investigation after the discovery of the body of a 28-year-old man at Bellmont Ave house in suburban Chartwell about 1.30am.

Police said he was bashed on the side of the head with a blunt instrument, while a second man was injured.

The clash occurred when a group turned up the house where drinking party had been taking place in a garage.

Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel Keall said today that while three men had been arrested, so far no one had been charged with murder.

One man appeared in Hamilton District Court yesterday charged with possession of an offensive weapon related to the incident.

"Another man was arrested for assaulting our victim and will appear in court today, while a third man was arrested for breaching bail and will also be appearing today," Mr Keall said.

He said items found at the scene were being forensically examined and more serious charges were likely.

Mr Keall said police were making good progress in the investigation , with members of the public being helpful, but anyone who had spoken to the offenders after the incident needed to contact police.

"Those who were at the party will know who we're talking about and we urge them to come forward to allow us to be as thorough in our investigation as we possibly can, this assists with providing closure for victim's families."

The body of the victim was removed from the scene around 1pm yesterday following a karakia from his family, and a post-mortem will be carried out in Auckland today.

- NZPA