John Wirihana Isaac's body was found in a river in January. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police
Police are no longer treating the death of a man they previously said was "violently attacked" as a homicide.
The body of John Wirihana Isaac was found in the river near the Ngaruawāhia boat ramp on 18 January.
At the time, detective inspector Darrell Harpur said the 53-year-old had multiple injuries and suffered a violent death.
He was attacked a matter of hours before he went into the river, Harpur had said.
"This all occurred in broad daylight, and we believe there are people out there who have information that will greatly assist our investigations."
However, on Thursday, Harpur said police no longer believed Isaac's death was suspicious.
They had come to that conclusion "following further inquiries", including a post-mortem exam, Harpur said.
Detective inspector Darrell Harpur. Photo: RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod
"Our thoughts are with Mr Isaac's friends and whānau during this difficult time.
"Police would like to acknowledge the significant public support shown following the death of Mr Isaac and to thank everyone who has come forward with information during the course of the investigation."
The matter was now before the Coroner, Harpur said.
Police previously said Isaac had previous familial connections to the underworld and was known to police but was not a gang member.
He had three children and a grandchild.
Isaac was last seen about 3pm the day before his body was found, wearing black cargo pants and a green t-shirt with a print of a gas mask while shopping on Avalon Drive in the Hamilton suburb of Nawton.
