Police have launched a homicide investigation following the death of a woman in Invercargill.

Officers attended the Bavarian Motel on North Road, Waikiwi around 11:00am today after receiving a report of concern.

Upon arrival officers located the body of a woman.

Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman said police are speaking with a number of witnesses and a scene guard is in place at the North Road address while examinations are undertaken.

"The investigation is in the early stages and officers would like to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the North Road area between Weka Street and West Plains Road, between 9pm last night and 9am this morning."

He said support is being provided to the woman’s family.

Earlier a police spokeswoman confirmed police were investigating a "serious assault" at the motel.

A witness at the scene reported an ambulance and a police car present at the motel earlier in the day.

Anyone who has information that can help the investigation is asked to call 105, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.