Police have arrested four youths in connection to the homicide investigation of an Opotiki man.

The youths, aged between 14 and 16 years old, have been charged with Wounding with Intent to Cause Grievous Bodily Harm and will appear in the Hastings District Court this afternoon.

Opotiki man Kelly Donner was found dead in Flaxmere, Hawke's Bay, on March 4.

His death is described as a 'needless and merciless killing” by police.

Police are seeking a fifth youth in relation to the matter, says Detective Senior Sergeant Marty James.

Further charges are likely to be laid as the investigation progresses.

Due to the matter now being before the court no further comment will be made, says Marty.

'Despite there still being a considerable amount of work to be done, I would like to thank the investigation team for their commitment and professionalism throughout the inquiry.

'I still urge those that have information to come forward so that we can discuss their knowledge of the incident.

'Any threats or intimidating behaviour towards witnesses will not be tolerated and we will ensure that such complaints are investigated.”