Several witnesses were assisting police with the investigation, a police spokesperson said earlier today.
Police have cordoned off the area of Zelda Ave between Maytime St and the walkway on to Othello Drive in Otara.
Police have told media at the scene to stop speaking to neighbours, out of fear of "something like this happening again".
When asked if the incident was gang-related, the officer at the scene said he didn't know.
The area was closed to all through traffic and was restricted to residents only.
Police asked to avoid the area if possible.
Neighbours told Newstalk ZB this morning they heard noises last night but put it down to fireworks.
One woman said she went back to sleep after the noise but realised it was not fireworks after her son woke her to say police had come to the street.
Police are appealing for people who know the deceased or have information about what happened to contact the Manukau Police Station on 0508 422 443, or if they wish to remain anonymous to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Counties Manukau Police are expected to release more information this morning.