A police investigation is underway after a body was found in Wairoa in the early hours of this morning.
Detective Sergeant Daniel Kirk said the man's body was found just before 5am on Black St, near Rutherford St.
Police were working to identify the man and establish what happened. While inquiries are ongoing, Police will not speculate on the cause of death.
"We are asking local people to avoid the scene to allow Police do their work and to provide some dignity for the deceased," Mr Kirk said.
Investigators are seeking the public's assistance and would like to hear from anyone who was in the area of Black St between 4am and 5am this morning.