Teenager found dead in stormwater drain in South Auckland

Police said emergency services were called to the scene in Mangere at 4.40pm. Photo / Brittany Keogh

A teenager's body has been found in a stormwater drain this afternoon.

It is understood the girl, who police say was 17-years-old, lived locally and was with other children when she died near Enuamanu Rd in South Auckland.

Emergency services were called to Mangere at 4.40pm.

Local residents said the girl was often out playing on the street with other children.

A man who lives in the area told the Herald he was at a family reunion at the nearby community hall when a little boy ran in and asked for help.

The man said his cousin ran out and managed to get the girl out of the drain but couldn't revive her.

There was usually a grate over the drain the girl was found in, he said.

Photo / Brittany Keogh

Police confirmed a member of the public found the girl.

She was dead by the time emergency services arrived, a police spokeswoman said.

Another neighbour, Fonga Fenton. said: "Just this morning I saw her. It's so sad."

Another neighbour said: "I get goosebumps."

Police had earlier cordoned off the end of the cul-de-sac at two points.

A crowd of about 20 neighbours were gathered at the cordon before police opened it.

Police said inquiries will continue into the girl's death, but they do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances.

Photo / Brittany Keogh

Next of kin had been advised.

Tepori Teariki, who is a member of the nearby Cook Island community centre Atiu-Nui Maruarua, said earlier that part of Enuamanu Rd had been cordoned off and she was unable to access the centre.

She could see five police cars and several officers but no ambulance.

She had been assured by one officer the centre was not involved.