8 Nov 2022

Dive squad helping with homicide investigation into Anaru Moana's death

10:06 pm on 8 November 2022
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Police are continuing to search for Anaru Moana's body. File image Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

Police say the homicide investigation into the death of a South Canterbury man has today focused on an area known as the Waihao Box.

Anaru Moana disappeared on 20 December last year.

Two days after he went missing, his car was found burnt out at the Waihola layby off State Highway 1.

Police divers today began searching waterways in the Waitaki area, close to where his silver Subaru was found.

Detective Inspector Joel Syme said the Waihao River was an ongoing area of interest in the investigation.

Over coming days police divers would search waterways close to where the vehicle was found, and also deep water areas on the Waitaki River close to State Highway 1, he said.

Car being sought in Anaru Moana homicide inquiry

Police found Anaru Moana's vehicle two days after his disappearance. Photo: Supplied / NZ police

Earlier Detective inspector Joel Syme said good progress has been made in identifying those responsible for Moana's death.

Inspector Syme said police were working hard to locate his body so it could be returned to the whānau.

"We continue to urge anyone with information to contact police, or alternatively contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."