The brother of man who died after being hit in the head with an axe briefly appeared in Whakatane District Court today.

Cameron Hunt, 25, is facing one count of murder in relation to the death of his 31-year-old brother Barry Junior Hunt.

Cameron Hunt was supported by a large group of family when he appeared in Whakatane District Court today.

Barry died in Whakatane Hospital early this morning after suffering critical head injuries when he was struck in the head with an axe during a fight at a Kawerau property last night.

Police were called to the address on Blundell St around 7.30pm following an altercation between a small group of men.

Police say all men involved were known to each other.

On arrival, police found Barry with a head wound and was taken to hospital in critical condition by St John Paramedics.

Officers arrested Cameron Hunt and held him in custody until his court appearance today.

The accused offender has been remanded in custody until July 22 when he will appear in Tauranga District Court.