Cromwell police investigate dead $12k bull

Police are investigating the death of a bull in Cromwell after it is thought to have been shot.

Cromwell police are investigating the death of a bull in mysterious circumstances at a Nevis Rd station.

Carrick Station shepherd Ben Maxwell said he suspected the bull, a Hereford bought for $12,000, had died on Friday or Saturday.

The large animal lay close to the Nevis Rd.

Mr Maxwell said he had last seen the bull on Wednesday, when it showed no signs of illness.

Photos on social media appeared to show a close group of small bullet holes behind the bull's front leg. The investigation will continue today.