Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

Police are making “steady progress” with the investigation into a man’s unexplained death following a suspicious house fire in Northland.

Emergency services were called to the scene on Thomas Street in Tikipunga just after 3am on Monday morning.

A house and car were on fire.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand extinguished the blaze and found a man inside the house.

First responders attempted to save him but he died at the scene.

Detective Inspector Al Symonds said investigation teams were continuing to piece together exactly what happened.

“We are making steady progress with inquiries and have now spoken to a number of people who were in the area at the time.

“Support is also being provided to the man’s whānau.”

Symonds said an increased police presence may be noticed in the area and would continue until the scene examination was complete.

The formal identification process was also underway.

Police said they wanted to hear from anyone in the area who may have information that could help with the investigation.

“You can call us via 105 or provide information online using Update My Report.