Police believe person found dead in Auckland was struck by vehicle

A police investigation is underway following the discovery of a person’s body on a highway in Auckland this morning, January 1.

Earlier today, police said a person had been found deceased on Kaipara Coast Highway in Makarau.

“Police were called to an incident around 5.20am where a person was found deceased on the road.

“The death is being treated as unexplained, and enquiries into the circumstances are underway.

“A scene examination is taking place, and the road remains closed with cordons in place at the West Coast Road intersection and the Makarau Road intersection.

“The public is advised to avoid the area, and motorists should take alternative routes.”

In an update issued at 9.38 am, Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting of Waitematā Police’s criminal investigation branch says police are appealing to the public for information.

“Around 5.20am today, police were called with a report that someone was deceased on Kaipara Coast Highway, between Tuhirangi Road and Makarau Road.

“Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing; however police believe it’s likely the person was struck by a vehicle.

“Police would like to hear from anyone who was travelling in the area between midnight and 5.30am, who observed a pedestrian walking on Kaipara Coast Highway, Makarau, or has who has dashcam footage of the area during that time.

“If you can help, please contact police through 105, either online or over the phone, and reference file number 260101/7190.”

Bunting says the road is expected to remain closed for the next three hours while a scene examination takes place with the Serious Crash Unit.

Diversions remain in place at the West Coast Road and Makarau Road intersections and the public is reminded to avoid the area.