The Armed Offenders Squad are executing a “pre-planned search warrant” on the same street where David Bridgwater was found dead.

In a statement, police said the search began about 8.30am and is part of Operation Walter, the investigation into the homicide of David Karl Bridgwater.

“Cordons are in place while police search the property and people are asked to avoid the area.”

Police were called to Carisbrooke Street in Aranui early Thursday morning after neighbours reported hearing noises outside.

The 38-year-old’s body was found lying on the road near his car.

Police are continuing to seek a white 2006 Toyota Crown sedan, registration LEQ895.

The car has a sunroof, making it quite distinctive. Bridgwater last posted on Facebook on Christmas Day.

“I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a safe holidays and remember it’s not what’s under the tree it’s who’s around it I lost a few people this year that were very important to me and are no longer around.”

An associate of Bridgwater described him as a “lovely man and a caring father who would be dearly missed.”

His close friend Michael Sturgess paid tribute to his mate online.

“With a heavy heart an very sore eyes from crying you will be missed so much my brother you didn’t deserve to go this way much love always an feeling for your whanau an friends right now.

“You will always have a piece of my heart and I’ll love a cherish all the memories brother miss your smile a sense of humour rest in love my brother David Bridgwater.”

An associate of Bridgwater described him as a “lovely man and a caring father who would be dearly missed.”

On Thursday Detective Nicola Reeves encouraged anyone who heard unusual noises on Carisbrooke Street or any available CCTV footage to contact police.