Sandringham stabbing: Third man charged in relation to fatal robbery

A third man has been charged in relation to the death of a dairy worker in Auckland's Sandringham.

Janak Patel, 34, was fatally stabbed when he confronted a robber outside Rose Cottage Superette on Wednesday night.

Patel's funeral is taking place in Wiri, south Auckland, this evening.

Two men have already been charged in relation to his death. One of them, a 34-year-old man, faces charges of aggravated robbery and murder and did not enter a plea when he appeared in court yesterday.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard said a 36-year-old man has now been charged with robbery.

He was expected to appear in Auckland District Court on Monday.

Beard said police had also located and seized a vehicle that was being sought as part of its investigation.

A knife and drawer from the dairy's till are still being looked for, Beard said.

"Police are still looking to find the knife used and the drawer from the till that was stolen, as well as the clothing worn by the man accused of the murder.

"We would like to thank everyone in our community who has gotten in touch with information to assist our work to hold these offenders to account."

Beard said anyone with information that has yet to contact police could do so by calling 105 or using the police website.

Hundreds gather for funeral

Hundreds of people have gathered for the funeral of Patel at Anns Funeral Home in Wiri.

Cars lined the roads surrounding the funeral home, as mourners arrived.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and MP Michael Wood were among those who attended.

Sunny Kaushal from the Dairy and Business Owner's Association, who brought several dozen other dairy owners with him, said about 300 people were expected.

The president of the Migrant Workers Association, Anu Kaloti, said today was about supporting the family in their grief.

Patel leaves a young widow.