Police at Okahu Bay, where the woman's body washed ashore this morning. Photo / Dean Purcell
Police have released a description of a young woman whose body was found at Okahu Bay this morning.
She is possibly of south Asian descent and appears to be in her 20s.
She has a small stud in her left nostril, shoulder-length hair and was wearing grey trousers and a light blue or grey T-shirt with buttons on the front.
The woman was not carrying any form of identification when she was found by a member of the public shortly before 10am.
Police do not know the circumstances surrounding her death and are appealing for anyone who may help to come forward.
Police say it appears she was in the water for less than 24 hours.
Detective Sergeant John de Heer, of Auckland City Police, appealed for anyone who might recognise the woman's description to get in touch with police.
Police were called out just before 10am, when a member of the public made the discovery.
It is understood the person who came across the body saw it floating in the water and went out to bring it back to shore.
Earlier today, Inspector Matt Rogers said police would reveal an identikit photo in the next few days if no one comes forward.
Officers cordoned off a part of the beach, where the body was found.
Kaumatua from the local iwi were also at the scene to bless the site.
Police said there were no forms of identification on the woman and initial checks have not revealed any recent reports of a missing person that fit her description.
Further information will be made available once additional inquiries have been carried out.
Three of the whales succumbed on the shore.