The University of Canterbury is going to launch an independent investigation after the body of a student at a university accommodation was not discovered for several weeks.
Sonoda Village, where the body of a University of Canterbury student was found after several weeks. Photo: RNZ / Eleisha Foon
The man - who has been identified by the university as a New Zealander - was dead for a number of weeks before being found on Monday.
University vice-chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey said there would be a comprehensive investigation to identify how this situation could have occurred and what actions needed to be taken.
She said support was in place for students within the privately run Sonoda Village, where the body was found.
Dr de la Rey said with comprehensive pastoral care programmes in place, it was inconceivable to imagine this had occurred.
The university said the family of the deceased student had requested privacy.
Three uniformed police officers were at the site this morning.
A university spokesperson said they were saddened by the death and counselling would be freely available to students and staff who wanted it.
A post-mortem was conducted yesterday.