Human remains found on a Wellington beach last month have been identified as being those of a man previously reported missing, police say.
The remains, a foot inside a shoe, were found on Petone Beach on March 25.
A member of the public discovered the foot and reported the matter to the police. An investigation was subsequently launched.
Just less than a month after the remains were discovered, DNA analysis has determined they were those of missing Petone man Fiva Pita.
Det Snr Sgt Martin Todd said Pita, 74, was reported missing and hadn't been seen by his family since the week before Christmas.
Todd revealed Pita's disappearance was "not believed to be suspicious and the matter will be referred to the coroner, who will release their findings in due course".
He said Pita's family, "who are understandably distressed by this news", were being supported by the police.
The family was requesting privacy, he said.
"Despite an extensive search by police since the initial remains were discovered, further remains have not been located.
"If anyone has information that may assist our enquiries, including any sightings of Mr Pita around Christmas 2022, we ask that they get in touch."
Police investigations were continuing on behalf of the coroner, Todd said.
