Police have been seen searching Heathcote Valley and its surrounds today, three days after an unidentified man with a unique birthmark was found dead.

Emergency crews were called to Horotane Valley Rd in Heathcote Valley on Friday after reports of the sudden death.

An investigation was launched to identify the man who is believed to be in his 30s or 40s with a distinctive birthmark on his left forearm.

He was wearing a black long-sleeve woollen jersey, black trousers and brown and grey tramping boots.

Police also found a backpack with him.

The man’s death is not believed to be suspicious.

Today, several officers were in the surrounding area at the intersection of Horotane Valley, Port Hills, Tunnel Road and in Duncan Park.

Police staff search Duncan Park in Heathcote Valley.

Councillor for Heathcote Valley Sarah Templeton said Heathcote Valley was a tight-knit community that had been impacted by the incident.

“People are finding it incredibly sad and are hoping that he can be identified,” Templeton said.

“I feel for any whanau that he may have had.”

Horotane Rd in Heathcote Valley.

“It’s a lovely community nestled in a couple of valleys,” Templeton said.

“Especially after the earthquakes, they’ve been really tight-knit and pretty community-focused.

“There’s been the odd incident on and off during the years, and I know that everyone always finds them incredibly sad.”