Woman's body found in Wellington Harbour

Police believe they have identified the body of a woman found in Wellington Harbour last night.

An investigation into the woman's death was launched after her body was found by the waterfront in the central city about 8pm by a member of the public.

The body was in the water, near the East by West ferry terminal on the Wellington Waterfront, police said.

"We believed we have identified the person and the family have been advised,'' police central communications shift inspector Paul Jermy said.

Her death will be referred to the coroner, he said.

Police have also appealed to the public for sightings of a European woman, aged in her mid 30s, who was wearing a dark coloured sweatshirt, black leggings and a red and black backpack in the area since November 21.

Anyone with information should contact Wellington police on (04) 381 2000.