Tauranga police are appealing for members of the public to help identify a man who was found dead in Tauranga Harbour yesterday afternoon.

The man was spotted by a tug boat in the vicinity of the Mount Maunganui Port. Port staff were alerted by the boat who in turn alerted the Police at approximately 2.50pm.

It's not clear how long the man has been in the water but most likely between one and two weeks. Police have so far been unable to identify the man and he doesn't fit the description of anyone reported missing.

Police are hoping that distinctive tattoos might assist with his identification.

He is described as a white European, aged between 18 and 35 and of small to medium build. He has the word 'SCORPIO' across his stomach, the word 'FORD'
on his right shoulder and a tribal design on the left forearm.

He is also wearing a black t-shirt and on the front of the shirt is a black star with a white surround and the word 'Tauranga' underneath.

A post mortem examination will be a carried out tomorrow to establish how the man died. It is too early to say if the death is suspicious.

Anyone with information relevant to this investigation or is aware of anyone missing of that description is asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.