Body found in burned-out car on Kāpiti Coast beach

Police are investigating after a body was found in a burned-out car at a beach near Wellington overnight.

Police were called to the fire about 12.45am on the beach near Peka Peka Rd in the Kāpiti Coast.

Emergency services found a body inside the car.

“Inquiries are now underway to establish the full circumstances of what has occurred,” acting Detective Sergeant Thomas Minney said.

The car was discovered at the beach in the early hours of the morning. Photo / Mark Mitchell

“A scene guard has been in place overnight, and a scene examination is due to take place today.“

There will be an increased police presence in Peka Peka while inquiries continue but there is no ongoing risk to the public, he said.

Police are asking people to avoid the beach area while they examine the scene.

Janhavi Gosavi is a Wellington-based journalist for the New Zealand Herald who covers news in the capital.