Body found on Napier beach was missing French tourist

Police have confirmed the body found on a Napier beach on Friday night was missing French tourist Pierre-Antoine Paludet. Photo/Supplied.

Police have confirmed that the body found on a Napier beach on Friday night was missing French tourist Pierre Antoine Paludet.

The 32-year-old disappeared from Haumoana more than one week ago, last sighted at his station wagon in the Domain car park.

His body was found on the beach adjacent to the former Winstones Aggregates site on State Highway 2, Awatoto, on Friday night.

Concerns for Mr Paludet, who had been sleeping in his vehicle, were raised last Saturday when locals noticed a build-up of rubbish and his station wagon seemingly abandoned - leading to a call to police the following afternoon.

Detective Senior Sergeant Martin James of the Hawke's Bay CIB said police had maintained close contact with the Frenchman's family and, after a body was found in Awatoto, had prepared them for the worst.

Mr Paludet's family had been advised and arrangements will be made to return him home to them.

His family had previously said they were very grateful for the support they had received from the Hawke's Bay community.

Police wanted to thank the Haumoana community for the information and assistance provided during our investigation into Mr Paludet's disappearance.

The matter had been referred to the Coroner.