The scene of Friday's homicide in Kaikohe. Photo: Emma Stanford / RNZ
A woman has died after an intruder broke into a property in Kaikohe, Northland on Thursday night.
Police said they were called to a Taraire Street property about 11.30pm after reports of an intruder.
A struggle resulted in one of occupants being seriously injured and subsequently dying, police said.
Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston said a homicide investigation had been launched and police were working to establish exactly what happened.
Police spoke with witnesses overnight to identify and find the intruder, who left the scene before police arrived, Johnston said.
"At this stage, no arrests have been made."
Johnston acknowledged the incident would leave the community feeling shaken.
"We know residents will be waking up this morning to this shocking news and we want to reassure them our inquiries are well underway to locate the person responsible and hold them to account for their actions."
They are asking to hear from anyone who may have seen something, or someone, which may help with inquiries - call 105 or go online using Update My Report, referencing file number 230602/1746, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.