Homicide investigation launched in Rotorua

Rotorua Police have launched a homicide investigation after the body of a male was located in Kuirau Park, Rotorua, at approximately 1:30am this morning (Tuesday 24 January).

The Bay of Plenty Police District Field Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Mark Loper, says the body was located by members of the public, who notified Police and medical staff.

"We have had an investigation team in place since the first call was received by Police, but obviously it is extremely early in the investigation and we are not yet in a position to provide any details.

"What we can say at this stage is that the man appears to have suffered some serious injuries and we have launched a homicide investigation."

Detective Inspector Loper says a large team is already working on the investigation, and will be undertaking searches of the Kuirau Park area and canvassing the local area this morning. He says that a team from ESR is on their way to Rotorua and will commence a forensic scene examination later this morning.

Detective Inspector Loper says there is a large cordon in place around almost the entire Kuirau Park area.

"Kuirau Park is a large recreational area located immediately outside the Rotorua CBD. It contains a number of geothermal areas, hot pools, carparks and a children's playground.

"Due to the need to preserve and recover any items that may be linked to this incident, we have an extensive cordon in place around the area. We are asking members of the public to avoid the area – certainly today and potentially in the coming days. Our aim is to reduce that cordon as soon as possible so that people can continue to visit and enjoy these park areas."

A media conference will be held later today, however the time and location are still to be confirmed.