Skeleton discovered at Sunset Beach

Counties Manukau Police are investigating the discovery of a human skeleton at Sunset Beach, Port Waikato.

The skeleton was found at 8.00am on Saturday morning by a female walking her dog.

Acting Crime Manager Inspector Gary Hill, says "On Saturday there was an extremely high tide, which revealed the top of a skull. After further investigation a skeleton was found. A scene examination appears to show the body may have been buried, although Police aren't ruling out other alternatives. It's understood the body has been there for a number of years."

The body has now been uplifted from the scene and a post-mortem will be carried out tomorrow.

"Currently a team of around 30 are working on 'Operation Dalia.' Members of Papakura CIB, Counties Manukau Major Crime Team, Specialist Search Group and ESR are at the scene. A cordon is suspected to be in place over the next two days and a scene examination will be carried out," said Mr Hill.

Anyone with any information relating to the discovery is urged to call Counties Manukau Police immediately on 09 261 1300 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.