Luke Smith was assaulted in the early hours of Sunday morning outside the old Reading Cinema in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
The 21-year-old victim of an assault on Courtenay Place in Wellington on Sunday morning has died and police say their investigation is now a homicide inquiry.
Police said Luke Smith died in hospital on Tuesday surrounded by family after his life support was withdrawn overnight.
Luke and his parents had emigrated to New Zealand from South Africa earlier this year and settled in Upper Hutt, police said.
A post-mortem is scheduled for Wednesday 9 October, after which Luke's family are planning to return him to South Africa for his funeral, they said.
Police said the assault occurred at about 3.15am on Sunday outside the old Reading Cinema building.
They want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or who came to Luke's assistance after the assault. Police are also seeking any pictures or video people may have of the incident.
Anyone with information is asked to call 105 and use the reference number 241006/5414 and information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
A 29-year-old man was bailed after he appeared in Wellington District Court charged with reckless disregard on Monday.
His next court appearance is scheduled for 21 October and police said further charges were possible.