Identity of body found in burnt-out car yet to be confirmed

Police are awaiting forensic tests to confirm the identity of a body found in a burnt-out vehicle in Tasman District this morning.

The body was discovered on the beach front of Kina Peninsula near Baigents Reserve, 13km southeast of Motueka, about 9.30am, Motueka Senior Sergeant Grant Andrews said.

The scene would be examined by ESR scientists and a forensic pathologist from Christchurch this afternoon, he said.

It may take several days to confirm the person's identity.

Mr Andrews said police were speaking to local residents but anyone who saw a fire or a four-door sedan in the area overnight should contact police immediately.

- NZPA