Police are appealing for information after a 100-person brawl broke out at a 21st birthday party in Gisborne over the weekend, leaving two men dead.
The fight allegedly broke out after two uninvited guests arrived at the celebration on Lytton Rd in Elgin around 11.30pm on Saturday.
Three people were taken to hospital following the brawl.
Two men, 45 and 21, remain in hospital in a "stable condition" while a 30-year-old man is in critical condition, Detective Inspector Dave de Lange told reporters in an update this afternoon.
The uninvited guest was among the three men in hospital, he said.
Investigators are urging people with any video or photos to come forward. (Source: 1News)
A 29-year-old man with gang connections has been remanded in custody until April. He has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
The bodies of the men were removed from the scene last night, and post mortems will be carried out in due course, de Lange said.
A scene examination is expected to be completed today.
In a post-Cabinet press conference this afternoon, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the fatal brawl a "tragic event".
"My heart really does go out to those families that have been impacted by the two that have lost their lives," he said.
"We'll make sure the police have what they need as they go forward from here."
Police appeal for video footage, photos
More than 40 witnesses have been identified by police as they continue their investigation into the fatal brawl.
De Lange said some witnesses have yet to speak to police.
"You might think you didn't see anything important but even small details can help the investigation," he said.
He said police are aware there is video footage, and possibly photographs, of the altercation.
"This is a very complex investigation with dozens of witnesses to be spoken to," he said.
"Everyone involved remains committed to getting answers for the grieving whānau and our community.
"If you were at the address on the night or have information, please contact us as soon as possible."
'Not a gang conflict'
A police spokesperson said: "The homicide investigation continues today with police continuing to make inquiries and provide reassurance in the local area."
Speaking to media yesterday Tairāwhiti Area Commander Acting Inspector Darren Paki said the event was a 21st birthday party.
"What should have been a happy occasion for this family, fuelled by alcohol, has turned into an ugly and an awful tragedy for the people involved."
The large number of people involved meant it would "take time to piece together the details of what happened".
"Police from around the district and surrounding areas have been called to boost staff numbers for reassurances."
Initial indications were that the altercation did not involve rival gangs, Paki said.
"We believe gang members were present, but it is not a gang conflict."
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