Hawke’s Bay police district manager criminal investigations Detective Inspector Martin James said a homicide investigation was launched on Sunday, and a team of 20 investigators are on the case.
No one had yet been arrested.
“A disorder event involving a group of people on Dinwiddie Avenue may be linked to the incident,” James said.
“We still urgently need to hear from anyone who was in the area, or anyone who took photos or video of the altercation on Dinwiddie Ave.
“We understand the fact someone so young has been killed is very unsettling for the community.
“We are providing support to the whānau of the victim and assure the community we are working hard to understand what happened and hold those responsible to account.”
The scene at Dinwiddie Ave, Napier. Photo / RNZ / Alexa Cook
Kaea Karauria, 15, from Napier was killed on Sunday morning. Photo / Supplied
Napier Boys’ High School principal Simon Coe confirmed Karauria was a student at the school.
He said the school’s primary focus was supporting students, staff and Karauria’s whānau.
Kaea’s relative, Jennifer Hatton, shared a post on social media on behalf of the whanau.
“We wish to extend our heartfelt thank you for all the aroha received over the last 24 hours as we navigate the tragic loss of a much loved Son Brother Moko Nephew Cousin and friend to many,” she wrote.
“Thank you for your patience, as we prepare the family homestead for our boys return home to us.”
Kaea played for Napier Pirate Rugby and Sports Club.
A second injured teenager was found at a Cottrell Cres address early on Sunday morning. He was taken to hospital in a serious condition but has since been discharged.
The incidents are believed to be linked.
RNZ reported that on Monday morning the area was quiet near the scene, with a scene guard in place on Alexander Ave.
A neighbour, who did not want to be identified, told RNZ she woke on Sunday morning to the street in lockdown by police, and was told to stay put.
The woman said they were thinking of moving houses before the incident, but now will definitely be leaving the area as they felt scared and unsafe.
Anyone with information is asked to make a report online, or by calling 105, and people are asked to quote the reference number 250511/1317.
