Utuhina Stream. Photo/File
Children playing near a Rotorua stream have found a human placenta and umbilical cord - sparking concerns there may be a woman in distress.
Rotorua police area prevention manager Inspector Brendon Keenan said the Criminal Investigation Branch was called to the Utuhina Stream about 5.30pm on Friday.
"It was a
few kids playing near the stream who found it."
He said initially the placenta was taken to a vet as it was suspected to be from an animal, but it has since been confirmed as a human placenta.
"Police are very concerned, there could potentially be a distressed woman out there who had an unwanted pregnancy or may now be having health issues."
