Shortly before 7am (Saturday, 25 April) a member of the public located a crashed vehicle on Iri Irikapua Parade, Rotorua. Inside the vehicle was a deceased male.
Early indications are that the vehicle has failed to negotiate a bend and struck a tree.
The identity of the man is yet to be confirmed and Police are also working to establish when the crash occurred.
One local resident has reported hearing a loud bang sometime between midnight and 2am.
Police would like to hear from anyone who heard or saw anything which may be relevant to this crash investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.