Police have launched a homicide investigation after a man was shot dead in Naenae, Lower Hutt this afternoon.

Emergency services were called to Seddon St at 3.20pm after a man was located critically injured in the street, police said.

“Tragically despite the efforts of emergency services staff he died a short time later.

“Cordons remain in place on Seddon St and residents can expect to see a continued police presence into this evening as we conduct a scene examination and speak to potential witnesses.

“We know this incident will have caused great concern for nearby residents and the wider Naenae community, and we will have an increased presence in the area in the coming days to provide reassurance.”

Police want to hear from anyone who has information which could help the investigation, who has not yet spoken to officers.

Earlier, a police spokesperson said emergency services said a person had been located critically injured in the street.

“Cordons have been put in place on Seddon St and residents are asked to follow the officers’ directions on the cordons.”

A member of the public, who was one of the first people on the scene, said police told him the man had been shot.

”We noticed the guy on the road, so we blocked it off to prevent others blocking the way for emergency services.

Armed police patrolling a cordon in Naenae, Lower Hutt. Photo / Supplied

”[I] Just assumed the guy was involved in a hit and run.”

He said another woman at the scene had performed CPR on the person.

”[It was] shocking alright, was loads of people around, kids as well.

A man was found in a critical condition in Seddon St, Naenae this afternoon. Photo / Google

“A few cars turned up that must have been associates of the victim — they nearly overtook the emergency service vehicles coming down the road.”

A video of the scene, posted to social media, shows police, ambulances, and fire engines in the area, with armed police officers manning cordons.

Residents commented on Facebook saying someone had been shot and was lying on the road, with members of the public performing CPR.

Another resident said at least 12 police cars and ambulances were seen racing to the scene.

“Can hear loads of sirens. Hope everyone okay.”

The Wellington Free Ambulance also attended the scene.

Anyone with information can contact police via 105 and quote event number P060897936.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555111.