Police have opened a homicide inquiry after the death of a 50-year-old woman in Ngakuru, Rotorua.

Police were called to a family harm incident at 7.15am on Whirinaki Valley Road, says a police spokesperson.

"A 57-year-old man was arrested and has appeared in Rotorua District Court today charged with murder.

"A scene examination is underway."

No other information has been released at this stage.

We will provide any updates as soon as they are available.