Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen
Police are continuing to probe the death of 18-year-old Layk Scowen in Hokitika last Friday.
A police statement this afternoon moved to reassure the public that there was no danger posed to the community after the incident.
"We are aware that there is a significant interest in this matter locally, and a lot of speculation in the community regarding the circumstances leading to Layk's death," Detective Senior Sergeant Kirsten Norton said in a statement.
"The cause of death is a matter for the Coroner to determine, so that is not something Police can comment on.
"However, I can confirm that there is not believed to be any risk to the wider community from any factors potentially involved in Layk's death."
Police said officers were providing support to Layk's family and a number of young people who had been with him when he died.
"This has been an incredibly traumatic time for everyone involved," Norton said.
"On behalf of Layk's family and friends, I would like to urge media to respect their privacy as they grieve and come to terms with this tragic situation."
