Placenta found in Rotorua undergoing DNA profiling

Utuhina Stream. Photo/File

Police are still awaiting results of DNA testing on a human placenta found near a Rotorua stream late last month.

Rotorua police area prevention manager Inspector Brendon Keenan said the Criminal Investigation Branch was called to the Utuhina Stream about 5.30pm on January 26, after children found a placenta and umbilical cord.

"That has now been sent up to the Environmental Science and Research unit in Auckland.

"The process should be able to provide some form of DNA profiling to link back to potential families."

Police had been concerned there was a woman in distress after the discovery and that was still a possibility, Keenan said.

"There could be someone that needs help in terms of medical help or even emotional help.

"They can contact the police or another social service. It's not going to be about blame, it's about getting the person the help they need."

Keenan said he was not sure how long the DNA profiling process would take.

Anyone with information should contact the Rotorua police on (07) 348 0099 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.