The family of a man who died after being stabbed has described his killing as brutal and senseless.
Robert Wilkinson, who was 64 and was also known as Murray, was stabbed outside his caravan at Waihi Beach on New Year's Day.
Family members held a news conference at the Hamilton Central Police Station on Friday afternoon.
Robert Wilkinson's daughter Corey (left), son Dan (middle) and wife Luise (right). Photo: RNZ
Mr Wilkinson's son Dan spoke on behalf of the family.
Dan Wilkinson said they are desperate to understand who killed Murray and why.
"If you know anything, anything at all, even have photographs that show the crowd and what was happening in and around the area that night, please let the police know, somebody has the answer to my Dad's death."
He said his father's grandchildren have been robbed of his love, his wife, the love of her life and to them all, the loss of a mate, all due to brutal, senseless violence.
He said his Dad was a selfless, honest and humble man.
Dan Wilkinson said they owe it to his father to stop this happening to another family so no-one else has their life ruined.
Robert Wilkinson, who was Australian and on holiday from Queensland, died in Waikato Hospital on Thursday from injuries suffered when he was stabbed in the face and neck.
Police investigating his death say they won't be releasing details of his post-mortem at this stage and have ordered further forensic tests to be done.
Detective Inspector Chris Page says police continue to search for a weapon and have extended the search area.
He says at this stage they are keeping an open mind about the actual weapon used.
Mr Page says someone must know who was responsible.
He says even a tiny piece of information may be vital to the investigation.
More than 30 police staff from throughout Bay of Plenty and from as far away as Auckland are involved in the homicide investigation.
