Forensic investigation gets under way at burnt out vehicle

The detailed examination of a burned out vehicle discovered near Kaikoura yesterday will get under way this morning.

Most of yesterday was spent securing the scene around the vehicle, preserving evidence and conducting background inquiries. A large tent has been erected over the site and the examination will be conducted under cover today.

Police believe there may be a body in the vehicle but that will not be confirmed until a forensic pathologist has completed a scene investigation today.

ESR, fire investigators, police and a pathologist are at the Kiwa Road site today, about 15km north of Kaikoura.

Detective Sergeant Dave Woodley of Blenheim CIB said it was too early to say what may have caused the fire which has completely gutted the vehicle.

He said Police would be keen to speak to anyone who had been in the area early on Tuesday morning, or anyone with information that may be relevant to the investigation.