Police have launched a homicide investigation after a 21-year-old man died following a fight in Opotiki last night.

The man was found collapsed in nearby King Street shortly after police were called to large group of people fighting in Goring Street about 7pm.

Police are investigating the death of a man who collapsed on King Street in Opotiki.

A post mortem examination will be undertaken this morning.

At this stage police will be making no comment in regard to injuries, but it is being regarded as a homicide, says BOP police communications manager Kim Perks.

The man was found collapsed by St John ambulance staff. He was taken to Whakatane Hospital in a critical condition, but died a short time later.

Today two properties in Goring Street are cordoned off and will be subject to scene examinations.

No further information is available this morning. A further media update is not expected until early this afternoon.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Whakatane Police on 07 308 5255. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.