Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen
A homicide inquiry has begun after a man's body was found down a bank on a rural road near Whakatāne.
Police were called to the scene on Matahi Valley Road on Thursday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Wilson, of the Eastern Bay of Plenty CIB, said a cordon remains in place around the area where the body was found.
A scene examination and other inquiries were underway, he said.
Anyone with information which could assist police is asked to get in touch via the 105 phone service and refer to event number P054846261.
As well, information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.