A homicide investigation is now underway after a person was found dead in a Taranaki house fire earlier this month.
Police said the fire happened at a house on Waitaanga Rd at about 8am on October 12.
The death is now being treated as suspicious following a post-mortem examination.
Det Insp Brent Matuku, of Central District, said the victim has not yet been identified.
"We know this will be of concern to people in Waitaanga and police have had an increased presence in the area as the investigation progresses," Matuku said in a statement.
Investigations were continuing and anyone with information was urged to get in contact with the police, he said.
"Even the smallest detail could be a missing piece of the puzzle that brings justice for the deceased."
