Police are 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.
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.
