Three people found dead at Darwin property

Three people have been found dead at a property in suburban Darwin.

The body of a woman was discovered about 50m from a house on the half-hectare block on Saturday morning by a caretaker who called St John Ambulance crews and police.

Those of two others were recovered inside a nearby tent.

Detective Acting Superintendent Lee Morgan of the NT Police major crimes squad said he could not release further details about the identity of the three or their injuries until next of kin had been informed.

"It was quite a horrific find for the caretaker," Supt Morgan told AAP.

"I can say that the bodies have suffered quite severe decomposition. The extent of that leaves us to believe the bodies have been there for 24, possibly up to 48 hours.

"We can't determine the injuries from our initial inspection but forensic people and pathologists will make an inspection."

Police are canvassing neighbours and have asked for information about movements on the property on Thursday and Friday.

"Thursday is particularly interesting to us," Mr Morgan said.

"With three people deceased we are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness and we will spend the next few days here doing everything we can."