Butane believed to have caused death of 12-year-old

Police are warning of the dangers of sniffing butane and other substances following the death of 12-year-old boy in Christchurch.

His body was found in a New Brighton car park last night.

Detective Inspector David Long says it's believed the boy was sniffing butane from a canister with a group of young people.

"If young people know of others that are sniffing chemicals or sprays, they should do the best that they can to take them away from them or let a responsible adult know. That could be a parent, an older person or even a councillor at school."

Inspector Long says it's to ensure positive action can be taken to stop their friends from being at risk.

They will also be looking into who sold the butane to the group.

Police say while the cause of death has yet to be confirmed, the incident highlights the dangers of people sniffing butane or 'huffing' as it is known.

A post-mortem examination is expected to be held on Monday.

Photo: NZ Herald