A third person has been arrested and charged with murder following the death of 52-year-old Michael Tokona in Kawerau on February 26.

The 15-year-old male appeared in Whakatāne Youth Court this afternoon.

Another 15-year-old and a 21-year-old male are also before the courts for murder after being arrested in recent weeks.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Wilson, Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Investigations manager, said police were pleased to have been able to progress the matter and hold people to account.

The trio are expected to reappear in the High Court at Tauranga on April 30.

Police were called to an address on Onslow Street on the morning of February 26.

Mr Tokona’s death was initially treated as unexplained, but police upgraded their inquiries to a homicide investigation the following day.

Mr Tokona has been described by family as a “gentle” man with a big heart.

Messages of condolences left on social media for him said he was cherished and loved, a gentle giant and a darling brother who used to volunteer at Whakatāne Riding for the Disabled.

Mr Tokona was laid to rest in early March.