A cordon on Alexandra Street in Hamilton. Photo: RNZ / Daniel Gilhooly
Warning: The following story contains graphic images that may be distressing for some readers.
A business owner near to the scene of a fatal brawl in Hamilton says it's the first time she's seen something like this since opening.
Police are continuing to search for the people and any weapons involved in the fatal fight over the weekend.
Officers were called to a brawl between two groups on Alexandra Street, in the central city, just after midnight on Sunday.
Four people were injured, including a 20-year-old man who died in hospital. The three other victims suffered injuries ranging from moderate to serious.
RNZ understands the victims were stabbed.
A business owner on the same street, who did not wish to be named, said the area usually attracts a young crowd.
While a Wintec student, who uses an art studio on the same street, said she doesn't feel safe in that area at night.
The art student, who didn't want to be named, said it's frightening to have this happening to young people so close by.
Blood stains on the flooring of a container walkway outside a construction site on Alexandra Street. Photo:
An RNZ reporter at the scene said there were blood stains throughout the flooring of a container walkway outside a construction site on Alexandra Street.
A homicide investigation was launched and Detective Sergeant Reece Durston said officers are still looking for several people, including the main offender.
"The investigation team is working hard to understand how and why this happened, and we are wrapping support around the family of the deceased, and the other victims," Detective Sergeant Durston said.
Sources have told RNZ that the stabbing may have been linked to a club event in the central city.
Photo: RNZ/Lucy Xia
The person, who did not want to be named, said the central city was heaving last night following the All Blacks test against France at FMG Stadium.
Bar workers were unable to access their cars parked on the street and were told by police to either walk home or Uber, sources told RNZ.
Police said there will continue to be a visible police presence in Hamilton as the investigation continues, as well as reassurance patrols in the community.
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