Blockhouse Bay homicide: Police cordon off area around tennis club, recreation reserve after man’s death

Police have launched a homicide investigation in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland.

An officer at the scene confirmed to the Herald the “incident” at the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club was an apparent homicide.

Police were called to Rathlin St at 11.37am “where a man was injured by another person”.

“Upon arrival, a man was located with critical injuries,” a police statement said this afternoon.

“Sadly, despite efforts of emergency services, the man died at the scene.

“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, and we are providing them with support at this difficult time.

“Police are now making inquiries to understand what has occurred.”

Police officers, including dog units, are at the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club on Rathlin St, Blockhouse Bay, Auckland today. Photo / Dean Purcell

Police cordoned off the area around the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club and recreational reserve.

A scene examination will be carried out over the following days, police said.

An apparent pool of blood was visible just outside the tennis courts next to a disposable vape. A police photographer, wearing a boiler suit, was focused on this area.

Armed police arrived at the scene just before 3pm.

An apparent pool of blood was visible just outside the tennis courts next to a disposable vape. A police photographer in a boiler suit was focused on this area. Photo / Dean Purcell

At least four police dog units arrived by 1pm and there were “heaps” of officers. More officers arrived when the Herald was at the scene, including a forensic photographer.

“More information will be issued proactively when [police are] in a position to do so,” she said.

A man working near the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club told the Herald police had come to his work to investigate an alleged assault.

Officers told him they were “looking for someone”, he said.

Police officers have cordoned off the area around the Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club on Rathlin St after an "incident" late on Saturday morning. Photo / Dean Purcell

Police speak to a bystander at Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club. Photo / Dean Purcell

This afternoon, police said the investigation is “in its early stages” but members of the public “can expect to see an increased police presence in the Blockhouse Bay area while these enquiries continue”.

“We will be speaking to those who witnessed what has occurred and we encourage anyone with information who has not yet come forward to contact police as soon as possible,” a police spokesperson said.

Information can be provided through 105 or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 , using “Update My Report” and reference file number 240824/4136. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand responded to the incident, saying staff were helping St John Ambulance.

St John referred all questions to police.