Homicide inquiry launched

Police are investigating a homicide in Hastings after the body of a man not seen for several days was found at home.

The victim was found at a house in the suburb of St Leonard's yesterday about 8.15pm, and was believed to be the occupant, Detective Senior Sergeant Dave de Lange said.

A neighbour, concerned that the person had not been seen for several days, contacted police who then visited the house.

The death was being treated as suspicious.

Police and ESR staff were examining the property today, and a post-mortem would be carried out to determine the cause of death, Mr de Lange said.

A team of 12 detectives were investigating the circumstances of the death.

- NZPA