Police have launched a homicide investigation into the death of Otautau man Dale Watene.
Dale Watene's body was found in Longwood forest yesterday, more than a month after his disappearance. Photo: Supplied / Police
The 40-year-old's body was discovered in the Longwood Forest about 50km from Invercargill yesterday.
He had disappeared from Otautau on the evening of 16 April.
Detective Senior Sergeant Stuart Harvey said a homicide inquiry was launched following today's post-mortem.
"The investigation team has conducted extensive inquiries over the past few weeks in the search for Mr Watene," he said.
"Police continue to support Mr Watene's family.
"On behalf of his family, we would also request they be given privacy at this time."
Anyone with information about Watene's death was asked to contact Invercargill police or provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.