A manhunt is underway in the New Zealand town of Raglan after an Australian man’s body was found inside a campervan.
Waikato Police said the vehicle, a white 2017 Toyota Hiace ZL, was stolen prior to the discovery, with the campervan and body dumped 80km away in Gordontown.
It's understood the 33-year-old victim was travelling with a 32-year-old Canadian woman when they were confronted by the armed man during the early hours of this morning.
Detective Inspector Graham Pitkethley said the woman managed to escape the ordeal before running several kilometres to safety.
"We are supporting the female victim who is understandably very shocked and distressed, providing her with the support and welfare that she needs," he said.
Authorities believe the incident was not pre-meditated and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
"This is a random attack by, at this stage, what we can attribute to a sole offender but due to the circumstances of the attack, it is likely that he has confided in members of his community," Detective Inspector Pitkethley said.
A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed it is assisting in the case.
"The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance, in accordance with the Consular Services Charter, to the family of an Australian man who died in New Zealand," they said.
