Death near New Plymouth’s Wind Wand: Murder-accused appears in court

A homicide investigation was launched this morning after a death on New Plymouth's waterfront. Photo / NZME

A man has appeared in court charged with murder following the death of a man in New Plymouth near the Wind Wand, one of the city’s iconic structures.

Police were called to the Coastal Walkway area, on St Aubyn St (SH44), just before 7pm yesterday after reports of an altercation.

“On arrival, a man was found with critical injuries. CPR was performed, however, he died at the scene,” a police spokesperson said earlier.

A 44-year-old man was arrested at the scene.

This afternoon, he appeared in the New Plymouth District Court before Judge Sanjay Patel, who imposed interim name suppression for the man.

The courtroom’s public gallery was packed with his supporters.

Defence lawyer Julian Hannam did not seek bail for the man and sought remand without plea.

Police have charged a man with murder after the incident on St Aubyn St last night. Photo / NZME

Judge Patel remanded the man in custody ahead of his next appearance on December 5, which would be held in the High Court at New Plymouth.

Earlier today, a section of St Aubyn St was closed for several hours while police investigated.

The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway was cordoned off from the entrance of its carpark to past the Wind Wand, with a police tent erected over the train tracks.

The busy main road has been closed while police investigate. Photo / NZME

On the walkway’s platform, which overlooks the sea, only metres from the police tent, a bicycle and a backpack could be seen within the cordon.

Several police officers were on the scene, and one was standing guard at the underpass, which connects Pukeariki Landing to the walkway.

Residents on social media said they saw police, ambulances and fire engines swarming the area about 8pm yesterday.

Police were called just before 7pm after reports of an altercation. Photo / NZME

A spokesperson from KiwiRail said the investigation was not affecting train services this morning and directed all questions to police.

A second person arrested at the scene was later released without charge.

Police have appealed for anyone who might have witnessed the incident or has information about those involved to contact them on 105, referencing number 251119/8652.