Yesterday police named the victim as Thomas Tamitei Huiateroa (48).
Mr Huiateroa died when his Inch Clutha home became engulfed in flames on Saturday, about 8.50pm.
Earlier, he had been drinking to mark a North Island relative's unveiling - usually held a year after a person's death - when he left a family function at a neighbouring property to return home.
Detective Sergeant Stan Leishman, of Balclutha, said Mr Huiateroa was believed to be intoxicated when he went to get some food before going to his bedroom to rest.
Investigators believe the fire started in the dining room of the wooden home, which did not have electricity, before travelling up the hallway.
Frantic family members saw the flames engulfing the rear of the property, called 111, and went to help.
Mr Huiateroa responded to voices calling out to him, but was never seen.
''He has opened his bedroom door and succumbed to the smoke, heat and flames,'' Det Sgt Leishman said.
While investigators were yet to determine a cause there were a number of possible sources of ignition in the dining room, including a gas heater, a barbecue and candles, he said.
''It was a recipe for disaster.''
The rented Riverbank Rd property was destroyed in the blaze, and it was yet to be determined if smoke alarms were in the property.
The Fire Service responded with appliances from Balclutha. Not all residents were initially accounted for in the blaze.
Two more appliances were called to help with the fire, and were supported by water tankers, due to a water supply problem, a Fire Service spokesman said.
A family spokeswoman requested privacy when contacted by the Otago Daily Times yesterday.
Yesterday morning family members walked to the property to take the remains of Mr Huiateroa to a hearse.
''It was very emotional,'' Det Sgt Leishman said.
Family members were being supported by Victim Support, a police iwi liaison officer and a kaumatua.
The death has been referred to the coroner.
