A Whanganui man killed in his own home was respected journalist and former war correspondent Derek Round who worked for the New Zealand Press Association.

Mr Round, 77, was found dead on Thursday morning, with police saying his death had been violent.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Kirby would not say who found Mr Round, or how he died.

Police wanted to hear from anyone who saw his blue 1996 Jaguar XJ6 on the move from 6.30pm on Wednesday and 8.30am Thursday.

"I also want to hear from anyone who may have seen certain items of clothing, which may have been discarded," Mr Kirby said.

They included a red long-sleeved jersey or sweatshirt, a black leather sleeveless vest, dark coloured stonewashed jeans, dark fingerless gloves, and a pair of dark coloured sports shoes with light markings around the soles and coloured laces.

The cause of death will not be established until a post-mortem examination is carried out tomorrow.

Many people living on Campbell St said yesterday they did not know Mr Round, as most people in the area kept to themselves.

Neighbour Marie McDonald said she met him once and he was a "lovely guy".

"He's only been in the area for a very short time, from what I gather."

She said she was "shocked" someone may have been killed on her street.

"It's sad because he was a lovely gentleman."

A post-mortem is expected to be completed tomorrow.

Whanganui Police can be contacted on 06 349 0600.

- © Fairfax NZ News