Mangawhai toddler homicide: suppression granted for accused and victim

Police are expected to release more information about the child's death this morning.

A homicide investigation is underway in Mangawhai after the death of a 2-year-old child last night.

A 30-year-old man has been charged with assaulting the child - but further more serious charges may result as the investigation progresses.

He appeared in the North Shore District Court just before 2.30pm and was granted interim name suppression.

Community Magistrate Jan Holmes also suppressed the name of the toddler and the child's mother - as well as any information that could identify them.

The Herald understands some family members are yet to be told of the death.

Detective Senior Sergeant Kim Libby said police were called to the Mangawhai address at 8.15pm last night after the toddler died.

He said police were investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident to "better understand what has occurred".

"Police are not ruling out further charges," he said.

"Police would like to reassure the community we are not looking for anyone else in relation to this incident.

Libby said as the matter is under investigation he could not comment further at this time.

The matter has been referred to the Coroner.

-Additional reporting Chelsea Boyle