Human remains wash up on North Canterbury beach

Flowers have been left at Leithfield Beach where human remains have been found. Photo / Kurt Bayer

Human remains have been found at a beach in North Canterbury this morning,

A police spokesperson said they received information that the remains had washed ashore at Leithfield Beach in Hurunui.

The remains were located by a member of the public who informed police just after 8.30am.

"At this time, the remains are unidentified and the circumstances are unknown," they said.

A cordon was in place to protect the scene while police scoured the stony beach but it has since been lifted.

The remains have now been removed for examination to determine the age, sex and identity of the person.

Flowers have also been left at the beach today.

"You don't know the circumstances but it's very upsetting though," one local said.

Anyone with information or concerns that can assist this police are asked to contact Police on 111 and quote event number P049212549