The body of Robert William Jones, 69, was found on Tuesday morning at the scene of the blaze in the home on Conservators Rd in McLeans Island near Christchurch. The blaze broke out about 7.30pm.
Police removed his body this morning and named him this afternoon.
Fire and Emergency NZ and police have completed a scene examination at the property, and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.
The death has been referred to the Coroner.
"The property was extensively damaged as a result of the fire," said area commander Superintendent Lane Todd.
A neighbour said Jones lived at the property on his own.
She and her husband went over to the house on Monday night when they heard there was a fire - but by then there was nothing they could do.
The woman says the man's vehicle was outside the property and he spent a lot of time at home.
Fire and Emergency NZ southern shift manager Brent Dunn said four crews were called to the blaze.
"The house was well ablaze when we arrived," he said.
Dunn said the fire was put out shortly before 11pm on Monday.
Three investigators and two trucks were called to the blaze. Dunn directed further queries to police.
