A homicide investigation is underway in Auckland after a man died after being assaulted in the suburb of Mt Roskill.
Emergency services were called to a restaurant on Richardson Rd in the early hours of Friday after the victim was found unresponsive.
Despite receiving medical assistance, the victim died at the scene, police said.
No arrests have been made so far.
A nearby shop owner, who did not wish to be named, told Newshub the restaurant where the assault took place was usually quiet.
"When I showed up for work at 7am the police and ambulance were here conducting their examinations," he said.
"It's normally a very quiet place and nothing really happens here, but sometimes they hire it out for functions."
A neighbour told the NZ Herald she was "so scared" after the assault.
"I've been living here for 15 years - I'm super scared now," she said.
Det Snr Sgt Ash Matthews, of Auckland City, said a scene guard is in place as officers conduct an examination.
Officers were "working hard to establish exactly what has occurred and who is responsible", Matthews said.
"Further updates will be provided as the investigation allows."
