An area of Auckland's lower Queen Street which was reopened on Friday morning after being cordoned off overnight. Photo: RNZ / Felix Walton
One of the two people shot in central Auckland last night has died in hospital today, police have now confirmed.
Police were called to reports of a fight on the corner of Fort and Queen streets about 11.30pm on Thursday.
A small group of people were witnessed fighting before an offender pulled out a firearm and fired several shots.
One person was shot in the head and a second person was hit in the abdomen, and both were taken to hospital in critical condition.
Police confirmed on Friday evening that one of the victims has now died and a homicide investigation has been launched.
The other victim remains in a stable condition.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton said the man who died was taken off life support today and "sadly succumbed to his injuries with family beside him".
He said it was a tragic outcome.
"Our focus remains on locating the person responsible.
"The formal process around a post-mortem and formal identification will take place, and police will look to release further information about the man once we are in a position to do so."
Bolton said the absolute priority was to "bring about answers for this man's family".
In a press conference earlier today, Bolton said the two people shot in the CBD late last night "weren't looking for trouble".
Bolton said those living and working in the CBD may be feeling vulnerable and police had no tolerance for violence in public places.
"The CBD is still a safe place and I encourage people to come to the CBD."
The person who fired the shots was wearing distinctive red and black pants and a red hat, and fled the scene on a scooter.
He said the number of people involved in the incident on both sides was part of the investigation.
"Two groups were unknown to each other and the rest of it is forming part of our ongoing investigation."