The body was found at around 2pm and police officers are now onsite; carrying out a scene examination. Photo / File
A body has been found near bush on Waiheke Island today.
Auckland City Police have launched an investigation this afternoon after a member of the public made the discovery while walking near bush near Ocean View Road.
The body was found at around 2pm and police officers are now onsite; carrying out a scene examination.
No further details have been released about the discovery and whether the body belongs to a male or female or how long it might have been there.
Police say the body will remain at the scene overnight before being taken for a post mortem examination tomorrow.
Waiheke Local Board member Becs Ballard said she understood the body was found at the Atawhai-Whenua Reserve.
The reserve can be accessed by the public via Ocean View Road and is a popular walking route for those heading to and from the island's ferry terminal.
Ms Ballard acknowledged that although the circumstances surrounding the death was not yet known, there was a feeling of shock amongst the community following the news.
"Obviously we view Waiheke as a really safe community. You know, people don't lock their houses or their cars. So if it was suspicious then it would be a huge shock to the community,'' she said.
"Bad things don't normally happen at Waiheke - it's super safe.''
'He has disregarded our voice and continued with this divisive kaupapa.'