Update: Police question Opotiki residents after man's death

Police have cordoned off this driveway in Opotiki which leads to a house where police are investigating, following the death of a 21-year-old man.

Update: Police in Opotiki are asking for the community to remain calm and co-operate with the investigation into the death of a 21-year-old man in the town last night.

"We fully appreciate that this is an emotive time for the community of Opotiki and it is clear that last night's incident has caused some tensions in the town," Area Commander for Eastern Bay of Plenty Police, Inspector Kevin Taylor said.

"It is really important that we are able to focus our efforts on supporting the family of the young man who died and identifying the person responsible for his death, rather than having resources re-directed to deal with growing tensions."

Mr Taylor said the best way people assist the man's family was by co-operating with the investigation and passing on any information that might assist us as soon as possible.

"The community can be assured that Police are taking this death extremely seriously and have a large team working on the investigation.

"We also have increased patrols to provide some additional visibility and public reassurance."

Earlier forensic examinations were continuing and Police were awaiting the outcome of a post mortem.

Police were door knocking in the area of Opotiki where a 21-year-old man died after receiving fatal injuries last night.

Police had been called to a large fight in the street just after 7pm.

A few minutes later ambulance staff received a report of a man collapsed in nearby King Street.

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The man was taken to Whakatane Hospital in a critical condition but died a short time later

Two homes, both on back sections in Goring St, are being examined by police.

A drive way off Goring St has been cordoned with tape while the house at the end of the driveway has a smashed window visible from the roadside.

Bystanders near the address, who did not want to be named, said the two neighbouring homes were occupied by rival gangs.

A post mortem examination will be undertaken this morning.

Police said a further media update would be provided early afternoon.

In the meantime anyone with information about last night's incident is asked to contact Whakatane police on 07 308 5255.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.