Family members of two males wept and hugged as their loved ones appeared in court this afternoon, charged after a death in Whangārei.
File photo. Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
A person was taken to hospital with critical injuries on Saturday night but died soon after.
A 20-year-old is accused of the murder and a 17-year-old is accused of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Their identities are suppressed.
More than 40 supporters gathered in the public gallery this afternoon.
Family members shouted "love you" and "kia kaha" as the two males appeared separately.
The elder male had a wound on his face.
Judge Gene Tomlinson remanded the pair in custody.
The investigation
Police cordoned off blocks in the Whangārei CBD to investigate the scene yesterday, including a section of Bank St.
They believe the victim was injured on Bank St about 11.55pm on Saturday.
In a statement, Investigations Manager Detective Inspector Dene Begbie yesterday said: "While arrests have been made, the investigation team is not ruling out that charges may be filed in relation to other individuals."
Police are speaking to witnesses and reviewing footage.
They want to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time - phone police on 105 and quote file number 210613/2169.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously by phoning CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
A dedicated portal has been set up for anyone with images or recordings.
It can be accessed here.
