Police are investigating after a man suffered life-threatening gunshot wounds overnight in the Far North.

Detective Sergeant Dan Brockbank of Kaitāia police said police were called to Mary Hassett St in Mangōnui around 3.40am after reports a person had been shot.

The victim was airlifted in a critical condition to Whangārei Hospital.

Police confirmed he has since stabilised and was due to undergo surgery today.

Brockbank said inquiries were under way to find the person responsible and to establish what took place.

There was a heavy police presence in Mangōnui as police carried out a scene examination.

A person in the area reported seeing a helicopter today circling Mary Hassett St.

- Northern Advocate