Police investigating the killing of retired journalist Derek Round say it is likely he had contact with his killer in the days before his death.
He was found dead in his Campbell Street home in Whanganui at 8.30am last Thursday.
Police say Mr Round, 77, was killed in an horrific attack on Wednesday by someone he had previously encountered either in person or over the phone.
They have completed a forensic examination of a house in Field Street in the suburb of Aramoho, where Mr Round's car was taken after he was killed.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Kirby says the distinctive blue Jaguar XJ6 was then returned to Mr Round's property.
Police are appealing for information about the car which was seen travelling along Somme Parade about 8am on Thursday.
Mr Kirby says police are also searching for clothing they think was worn by Mr Round's attacker or attackers that could have been hidden or dumped.
The items include a red long-sleeved jersey, a black leather vest and dark fingerless gloves.
Mr Kirby says he is confident the killer will be caught and wants to hear from anyone who spoke to Mr Round in the days before his death.
Derek Round was a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to journalism.
