A homicide investigation has been launched after an eight-year-old child died in Southland on Wednesday.
Police have confirmed two Otautau addresses are under police guard after the child's death. Otautau is located north-west of Invercargill.
A number of witnesses are being spoken to by police in relation to the incident.
Area commander Mike Bowman said he wanted to reassure members of the public that it was an isolated incident and there was no threat to the public's safety.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Police on 105. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Newshub.
