Police have launched a double homicide investigation into the "sudden death" of what is understood to be two children on Monday morning.
Detective Inspector Bridget Doell from the Northland CIB said emergency services were called to a home in Ruakākā at around 7:30am on Monday morning after reports of a problem at a property on Peter Snell Road.
"Sadly, we can confirm two people have been located deceased at an address," Doell said."
Newshub understands those dead are a one-year-old and a four-year-old.
In an update at lunchtime on Monday, Doell said the investigation is in the early stages and officers are speaking with a person linked to the deaths.
"We will continue to support the Ruakākā community through this understandably distressing time," Doell said.
"While we appreciate the wider interest in what has occurred, Police aren’t in a position to release any further details at this stage."
Kāinga Ora confirmed to Newshub the deaths of the two people occurred in one of their homes.
"[We were] very sad to learn this morning of what police are describing as a sudden death incident at one of our properties in Ruakākā," Jeff Murray, Regional Director for Northland told Newshub.
Murray said their thoughts are with the whānau and the small Ruakākā community who will all feel the impacts of this tragedy.
"We will be checking in with our customers in the area to see what support they may need," he said.
Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo told Newshub in a statement the deaths in Ruakākā are "tragic".
"Emergency services and police are dealing with this incident and they are the people to approach for information," Cocurullo said.
"From Council’s perspective, all I can say is that this is tragic and shocking.
"The family and community will be reeling and will need support. We express our heartfelt compassion to everyone involved."
Dr Emily Henderson, the MP for Whangārei, also provided comment on the tragic deaths.
"I know that reports of this tragic incident in Ruakākā will be shocking to that very tight-knit community," Dr Henderson said.
"Police are currently investigating and I would encourage the community to do all that they can to look after and support each other during this awful time."
Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Hato Hone St John were all at the house on Monday morning.
There is a heavy police presence in Ruakākā with roads blocked off by officers.
Police have blocked off parts of Peter Snell Rd and can be seen talking to locals of neighbouring properties as their investigation continues.
A Hato Hone St John spokesperson confirmed to Newshub they are responding to a serious incident.
"We have been notified of an incident at a private residential address. We have no information to provide and refer all enquiries to police," the spokesperson said.
The Principal of Bream Bay College, which is located on Peter Snell Road, said they're aware of the "significant incident" that had happened close by.
"The College is aware of a significant incident that has happened close to it. We have support systems in place for any of our students who are affected by it. We have informed our Board of Trustees," Wayne Buckland said on Facebook.
"We will continue to monitor the situation and provide support as and when needed. We have had no indications of safety issues for our students who are attending school."
Buckland said local police have told them there are no safety concerns for students or operations.
Another school, One Tree Point School, acknowledged the "sad loss" and said support is available for students.
"We are aware of the sad loss of 2 children in Ruakākā this morning. Our sincere aroha and thoughts are with the whānau and everyone concerned," a staff member posted.
"We have support systems in place for any of our tamariki who need it. Please reach out if you have any concerns."
Doell said there will be an increase in police presence in the area following the sudden deaths.
"News of this incident will come as a shock to the community, and we can reassure them we are not currently seeking anyone else in relation to this incident," Doell said.
"There will be an increased Police presence in the area, and we will provide further updates as our investigation progresses."
Doell added while they're speaking with a person of interest, Police are interested in hearing from anyone in the area at the time who can assist with the investigation.
"People are asked to contact our 105 phone service quoting the file number 230515/0622 if they can assist," Doell said.
Ruakākā is a small beachside town about 30km south of Whangārei.
