Burnt body may need DNA testing

A post mortem was being carried out today on a badly burned body found in a gutted car.

Specialist investigators from Environmental and Scientific Research were also examining the vehicle, found at Puketapu, Hawke's Bay, on Saturday.

Detective Sergeant Mike Foster of Napier CIB said the body was so badly burned that even dental examinations may not be sufficient to confirm the identification of the man, though police believe they know who he is.

"It may come down to using DNA testing," he said.

It could take up to a month to get those results.

The car, a blue Holden Calais with the distinctive number plate CNIGE belonged to a 40-year-old man who had been reported missing since Anzac Day. Police believe the body to be that of the missing man.

A crucial part of the case was the movements of the car, Mr Foster said.

He appealed for anyone who may have seen the vehicle in the Taradale area between Anzac Day and last Friday to contact him at Napier police station.

- HAWKE'S BAY TODAY