Police have launched a homicide inquiry following the discovery of a body in the Longwood forestry block this week.

The deceased has now been confirmed as missing Otautau man Dale Tama Watene, aged 40.

A post mortem was carried out today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Stu Harvey said the investigation team had conducted extensive inquiries over the past few weeks in its search for Mr Watene and police continued to support his family.

Anyone with information in relation to the case is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Chris Lucy on (03) 211 0400.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.