UPDATE 11AM: Detectives are investigating the death of a man whose body was found in the back seat of a vehicle in a Katikati reserve early today.

The silver car found parked in a reserve off Beach Road, near its intersection with Main Road (SH2), has been cordoned off by police.

Police have cordoned off the area around a vehicle where a man was found dead.

Senior Constable John Fitzgerald confirmed to SunLive a deceased middle-aged man was found in the backseat of the car.

Detective Sergeant Rob Lemoto says it is too early to say if the death is suspicious and police will know more once a scene examination has been completed today.

It is believed the vehicle has been parked there since Sunday.

Anyone who saw the vehicle or has information is asked to contact Detective Lemoto at Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.