A man killed this morning following an altercation in Taupo was aged 19 and living in Taupo.
The incident is believed to have occurred at approximately 3.15am. Police were flagged down by a member of the public. The man is believed to have been stabbed but a post mortem will need to be carried out to ascertain the exact cause of death.
It is believed a small number of people were involved in the incident. Police are still trying to establish the circumstances that led to the 19-year-old's death, how many people were involved in the incident and whether or not the deceased knew his attacker.
The scene has been cordoned off with tents erected to protect the area from the poor weather conditions. Police and ESR will be carrying out a forensic examination of the scene and area enquiries are ongoing.
Area Commander Inspector Steve Bullock said: "Although it is very early into the investigation and there is still a lot of work to be done, we are confident at this stage that it is an isolated incident and I want to provide assurances that there is no public safety risk to the wider community."
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Taupo Police on 07 378 6060. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256