Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
A homicide investigation has been launched after two people were found dead at a home in Tūrangi.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Yardley said police were called to the Poihaere Street property shortly before 10pm on Wednesday night and located the bodies.
A scene guard remains in place while an examination is carried out.
Yardley said the public could expect to see an increased police presence over the coming days while police work out what has happened.
"Police extend our deepest sympathies to the whānau and loved ones of the deceased, who we will continue to keep updated as the investigation progresses."
Anyone with information, or who may have seen anything suspicious, is asked to call police on 105 and reference file number P059649530.
Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas has talked to a family member at the scene and said he understood the deceased were a local couple.
"Yes I think they are in a partnership situation, nothing is confirmed yet but the community is very safe. There are no other people involved," he said.
Trewavas told RNZ the family was in shock.
"Pretty upset that's for sure. It's a quiet little beautiful street in Tūrangi, and yeah for this to happen on a Wednesday night is pretty devastating for everyone," he said.
He said it was far too early to know what went so tragically wrong for the couple.
"The investigation teams are on the scene and probably will be here until tomorrow," Trewavas said.