Christchurch Police are seeking the public's help in a bid to return a box of ashes to its rightful owners. 

In a release, they said that a small wooden box was handed in to Hornby Police, containing ashes. 

On the box there was a photograph attached (see above) which they presume the ashes belong to. 

Police want anyone who can identify the man to contact them, "so the ashes can be returned to his family or friends."

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Senior Constable Michael Glenday at Hornby Police station.