They are appealing for more information following the death of 20-year-old Israel Jack, who was found dead on Te Ngae Road early in the morning on August 18.

On Thursday, police said two drivers had come forward saying they had hit something on the road that morning. Their vehicles had been examined and confirmed they had struck Mr Jack, while he lay on the road.

"There are still a number of questions that need answers; not least why he was lying in the road," Senior Sergeant Brendon Keenan said in a statement.

Mr Jack had walked about 6km from town.

A number of drunk witnesses said he was sticking to the footpath and a policeman who spoke to him said he appeared capable of getting home.

"One occasion when he was seen to rest he had done so safely sitting on the footpath. We need to establish why, so close to his destination, he would be lying prone in the road," Sen Sgt Keenan said.