Police have launched a homicide investigation after a woman’s body was found at a Kawerau property.

The discovery followed a crash involving a car and train at a private level crossing on Te Puke Highway in Paengaroa shortly after 9am Sunday.

The car’s only occupant was flown to Waikato Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

Detective Senior Sergeant Lou Curragh said police investigating the crash made inquiries at a Kawerau property, where they found the woman’s body.

“Police are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the woman’s death; however, it is being treated as suspicious.”

Curragh said scene examinations were taking place and guards remained at the property.

“Police will provide more information when we are in a position to do so,” Curragh said.