The death of a man found critically injured in a crashed van is now being treated as a homicide, with police saying his injuries are not thought to be consistent with a crash.

Police were called to Ford Rd in Rotorua just before 8.30pm on Friday after reports a vehicle had collided with a tree, Detective Inspector Lew Warner said.

“Upon arrival, the sole occupant of the vehicle was located with critical injuries.”

He died at the scene a short time later.

“Initial inquiries suggest the injuries sustained are not consistent with a crash, and we’d like to hear from anybody who has information that could assist police,” Warner said.

The white van the critically injured man was found inside. Photo / Ben Fraser

Anyone who was in or around Ford Rd between 8pm and 8.45pm Saturday should contact police, Warner said.

Police also want to hear from anyone who saw a white Toyota Hiace van with the registration number DFR734 in Ford Rd or the surrounding areas, he said.

A man was found with critical injuries in a crashed vehicle on Ford Rd in Rotorua last night. The man later died and police are investigating the death as a homicide. Image / Google Maps

“Anybody with information should contact police via 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 251212/4041.

“Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A forensic examination of the scene and vehicle was being carried out on Saturday, Warner said.

Police confirmed today a post-mortem was expected to be done on Sunday, as enquiries continued.