A witness says they saw the moment a man reportedly shot a woman dead in a popular Whangārei park.

The suspected gunman was found critically injured at Beach Road Reserve in Onerahi about 11.10am today.

He was taken to Whangārei Hospital by ambulance.

Residents reported hearing gunshots before police suddenly swarmed the waterfront park.

The witness said they did not know who the man and woman were.

Police have not confirmed a shooting occurred or any further details around the incident.

A cordon is in place around the public toilets and playground located on the popular park.

Neighbours said they are shocked and saddened by the incident.

Rahera Tau and her family live close to the park and use it often, either for exercise or for her two kids to play on the playground.

Police blocking access to Beach Rd, near the Onerahi Yacht Club. Photo / Denise Piper

She said she was sad to hear there was a shooting and felt a bit unsafe.

“It’s so sad, especially in a kids’ area, by a playground. People won’t want to come out here anymore.”

Tau said the area is used often by freedom campers but is also popular for fishers and dog walkers.

At the time of incident, the reserve was busy with fishers, freedom campers and dog walkers.

They left after being interviewed by police.

People reported seeing more than eight police cars in the area, as well as armed police and multiple ambulances.

Hato Hone St John sent three ambulances, an operations manager and one rapid response vehicle to the scene.

Beach Rd has been closed from Church St and police asked motorists to avoid the area.

Onerahi School was aware of an incident unfolding but was not currently impacted.

More to come.