Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Police probe slaying of veteran journalist in home

Updated at 6:05 am on 19 May 2012

Police have boosted the 25 staff initially investigating the death of a former senior journalist killed in a violent assault at his Wanganui home to a team of 40.

They named the victim as veteran journalist and former foreign correspondent Derek Round.

Mr Round, 77, was found in his home on Campbell Street at about 8.30am on Thursday.

Police say he was violently attacked.

They are seeking information from anyone who may have seen his car - a blue Jaguar - any time on Wednesday through till Thursday morning.

Police also want to hear from anyone who may have seen several items of discarded clothing, including a red long-sleeved jersey, a black leather vest and dark jeans.

Mr Round was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2010 for services to journalism following a career which included roles as correspondent and editor of the former national newsagency New Zealand Press Association.

Copyright © 2012, Radio New Zealand