Police try to identify body of newborn baby

Police were today trying to identify the body of a newborn baby discovered yesterday on a property near Hastings city centre.

Detective Sergeant Luke Shadbolt, of Hastings CIB, said police were seeking information about the identity of the parents of the infant, following the finding of the unclad body in grass at the rear of a property in Heretaunga Street East about 1.30pm.

It was not thought those staying at the property had any link to the child or were in any way involved, Mr Shadbolt said.

Police believe the body was placed on the section during the past fortnight, and were seeking any information which could be linked to the child.

This morning police were unsure of the exact age of the child, and a post mortem was expected to be held at Wellington Hospital today to establish details, including the cause of death.

An examination of the scene was continuing.

Mr Shadbolt urged anyone with information which could be linked to the child to contact Hastings police or their nearest police station, or use the confidential Crimeline 0800-567789.

- HAWKE'S BAY TODAY