A man charged with assault in relation to the death of a man in the early hours of New Years day has appeared in the Auckland District Court.

Panmure man Peter Job, 38, is accused of assaulting Nathan Albert, 27, who was stabbed on an East Auckland street.

He was remanded in custody to appear later this month.

Detective Inspector Mark Benefield said more serious charges may yet be laid as the investigation continues.

Albert, from Papatoetoe, was found just after 4am by the side of Pilkington Rd, Panmure. A member of the public tried to revive him.

Benefield said statements from witnesses pointed to only one person being involved in the attack.

No weapon had been recovered and police still want to hear from anyone who had information about where it may be.

A blessing took place yesterday at the spot where Albert died.

Next of kin had been informed, Benefield said, and they were understandably devastated.

"It's a bad start to the year," he said.

Neighbours reported hearing a large argument on the "usually quiet" street shortly before the alleged assault occurred.

Police want anyone with information to call 0800 4 TERRI or 0800 4 83774, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

- © Fairfax NZ News