The death of a man whose body was found in the Bay of Plenty is being treated as 'unexplained” as police continue to investigate.

The body of a man, believed to be in his late 40s, was discovered by a member of the public at the Hikuwai Beach car park at 9am on Sunday.

A police spokesperson says the investigation into this unexplained death is continuing, and the scene remains closed to the public.

'Police would like to hear from anyone who may have seen a Maroon Rav 4 in the Hikuwai Beach area on Saturday 27 or Sunday 28 April, or who may have seen anything unusual or suspicious in the area.

'They are asked to contact Opotiki Police on 07 315 1110.”

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.