Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 21-year-old Wellington resident.

Zenith Campbell, who preferred to be known as Zena, was found dead in a car in Aro Valley about midday yesterday, police said.

Wellington Detective Senior Sergeant Warwick McKee said a post-mortem would be completed to determine exactly how Zena died.

"We're currently conducting an examination of the car Zena was found in, as well as a scene examination at an address in Aro Valley," he said.

"We know that Zena was at a party at a house in Devon St on Saturday night, and left the house at around 3 am with an associate.

"We would like to hear from anyone who was at that party prior to that time."

Call Wellington Police on 04 381 2000 or anonymously phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you can help.