A body has been found by a hunter in bush near Thames, in the North Island.
A police spokeswoman said a member of the public reported the discovery shortly after 1pm.
The body was found near Te Puru Forks.
"A scene guard will remain in place overnight and police intend to recover the body tomorrow morning,'' she said.
Next of kin have been advised and formal identification has also been carried out, police said.
