Gisborne Police have launched a homicide investigation after the death of a man early on Monday.

Police were called at 4.20am after a man was transported by ambulance to Gisborne Hospital with severe injuries, according to a police statement.

“Tragically the man passed away a short time later,” the statement said.

Initial police inquiries indicated the man’s injuries were sustained at a residential address in Tolerton Ave, Elgin, Gisborne.

Residents of a nearby property were not aware the police presence on their street was related to a homicide investigation.

One woman said she had not heard anything unusual overnight.

”The dogs didn’t even bark, normally they would if something was up,” a man living nearby said.

Part of Tolerton Ave has been cordoned off. Photo / James Pocock

Another resident said the occupants of the cordoned property were later-middle aged people, but he didn’t know them very well.

A scene guard is in place at the address and a police presence will remain throughout the day as a scene examination takes place.

“Anyone who has information which could assist the investigation team is asked to contact police either online or by phone via 105 and quote file number 241028/4688,” the statement said.

“Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.”