But the pain has not ceased for his father, John Munro, and neither has his yearning for justice.
Nicholas died after an altercation with Samuel Richard Scott, over a taxi, escalated and resulted in Mr Scott throwing the punch which sent Nicholas backwards on to the tarseal of Frederick St, in Dunedin, early on March 6, 2005.
He sustained serious head injuries and died five days later from complications stemming from them.
Police subsequently investigated the homicide - twice - and the death was the subject of an investigation by the Independent Police Conduct Authority and a coronial inquest.
All of those agencies came to the same conclusion - that Mr Scott was acting in self defence.
But John Munro believes they got it wrong.
Although today's release of Coroner David Crerar's findings mark another block in the road, the fight for justice is not at end, Mr Munro says.
He feels like his in limbo as he plans his next move.
''I have always said if I won Lotto I would take a private prosecution tomorrow,'' he said earlier today.
''If we had a spare $250,000 dollars then yes I would [begin private prosecution proceedings], but we don't.
''If we did I would at the top of a hat because I believe it's the right thing to do.''
He wants Mr Scott to face court and feels it is the only appropriate avenue to decide his guilt in the death of Nicholas.
''I don't believe police did their job,'' he said.
''I don't believe they are likely to do their job again. I suppose it's up to us.''
What the family's next step will be is unclear, but John is adamant he will continue fighting until justice is served.
''I believe there is still enough here to get him before the courts and charge him and test it.''
