A 14-year-old has been charged with murder after a man was stabbed outside a bar in Opua, Northland.
Northland detective senior sergeant Mark Dalzell said police were called to a tavern on Opua Paihia Main Rd, State Highway 11 at around 11pm Thursday.
"Police located a male on the ground outside with critical stab wounds and despite efforts from St John staff, the 22-year-old male died en route to hospital," Dalzell said.
Police spoke with several present near the tavern and arrested a 14-year-old male who has now been charged with murder.
The teenager is expected to appear in Whangārei Youth Court on Friday afternoon.
The tavern owner told Newshub the tavern was closed by 9pm and the incident happened off the property at the top of the driveway.
Police said they are continuing to make enquiries and a scene examination is still being completed.
The victim's name will not be released until all next-of-kin have been notified, police said.
"We will be ensuring his family is supported at what is an extremely difficult time," said Dalzell.
Police are asking for any members of the public who were in the area on Thursday night or who saw anything they think may be relevant to the investigation to contact Kerikeri Police on 105.
