A man has appeared in court following the deaths of a woman and two children at a Rotorua home last night.
Emergency services were called to an address on High St in Glenholme shortly before 10.30pm yesterday.
Inspector Logan Marsh said two young children were found dead and a woman was found with life threatening injuries.
"Despite extensive efforts by police and ambulance crews, the woman died at the scene," Marsh said.
A homicide investigation was launched and the deaths of all three victims remained under investigation.
In an update this afternoon, police confirmed a man had appeared in Rotorua District Court today charged with assault on a person in a family relationship.
He was remanded in custody and was due to reappear in court on October 2.
Police earlier said a man at the address was assisting police with inquiries.
"At this time, police are not seeking anyone else in relation to this incident," Marsh said.
A scene guard will remain in place overnight, with a visible police presence in the area as investigations take place. Additional reassurance patrols will be carried out over the coming days and nights in Glenholme and the wider community.
A forensic examination will be held today and "may continue over the coming days".
"We are methodically working through the scene," Marsh said. "The investigation team will work for as long as it takes to understand what happened and why."
Support was being provided to the family of those involved.
"We know this event will be felt widely in the community and people will want answers," Marsh said.
"This was an incredibly traumatic incident for all those involved. Our focus now is on supporting the family, our first responders and getting answers to what occurred last night."
Marsh urged people to "refrain from speculation or conjecture".
Community 'heartbroken' after triple homicide – mayor
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said the community was "heartbroken to hear of this tragic loss".
"As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those impacted."
She said the incident had been "deeply distressing" for the neighbourhood involved.
"We acknowledge our emergency services and front line staff who have responded to this horrific tragedy. Police are continuing to investigate what has happened to provide answers, and we will continue to support them to keep our community safe."
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