A 12-year-old boy has been found dead in Christchurch after he was with a group of youths sniffing butane.
Police were called to a car park in New Brighton at 11.20pm last night by ambulance staff. Attempts to resuscitate the boy were unsuccessful and he died at the scene.
Initial inquiries indicate he had been with a group of young people who had been sniffing butane from a canister, police said.
Police say they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the death, which will now be referred to the coroner.
A post-mortem is expected to be held on Monday. Inquiries will also be made into the sale of the butane to the group of youths.
The identity of the boy has not been released as next of kin have yet to be notified.
Police say that while the cause of death has yet to be confirmed, the incident highlights the dangers of people sniffing butane or "huffing" as it is known.
No further information is expected to be released today. Police will advise any further updates by way of media statement.
