Gisborne police say man's death gang-related

Police have now confirmed that the death of a man in Gisborne in the early hours of this morning was gang related.

Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Scott said a homicide inquiry had been launched after the 32-year-old Gisborne man's body was found outside the Irish Rover bar in the central business district at approximately 3.15am today.

He was apparently stabbed to death although a post mortem examination is still to be peformed.

Mr Scott said police were interviewing a number of witnesses and following a line of inquiry.

A scene examination was being conducted on Peel St between Gladstone Rd and Childers Rd, and the block was closed.

It was hoped to reopen the area later today.

Police in the town have been investigating a number of violent gang-related incidents in recent weeks.

Witnesses reported a body lying under a tarpaulin in Peel St this morning.

Inspector Waata Shepherd said: "Many witnesses who were in the Irish Rover last night are being interviewed this morning and there has been good progress in the investigation."

Any other patrons who were in the nightclub last night are urged to contact police.

- NZPA