A 36-year-old man has died in Marton after his make-shift shelter burnt down overnight.
The man was residing in a make-shift shelter in a paddock on Hawkestone Road.
"We believe the fire has happened between 11pm on Wednesday 4 December and 8:30am today. While this is a broad timeframe and the rural property being off the main road, we want to speak to anyone that may have been in the area during these times. We are also keen to speak to anyone that may have any information relevant to this incident and we encourage them to contact Police," says officer in charge of Marton Police, Sergeant Peter Wood.
The man was the only person in the shelter at the time and Police were notified of the fire by the land owner earlier this morning.
"Officers from the Whanganui CIB and Fire Scene Investigators are working to establish the cause of the fire. Preliminary indications suggest a lit candle may have started the fire.
"A thorough scene examination is underway at the property and officers have also been speaking with the man's friends and associates to piece together his movements before the fire," says Sergeant Wood.
Police do not believe the fire was suspicious and the death will be referred to the coroner in due course.
No further details about the deceased will be released until his next of kin has been informed.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Marton Police on (06) 327 6555. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.