UPDATE 9.54am: A homicide investigation is under way following the death of a man in Whakamārama.

Emergency services were called to an Old Highway property at about 8.35pm on Sunday.

A man was located at the address with critical injuries, says Detective Inspector Lew Warner.

"Medical assistance was provided however the man died at the scene a short time later.

"A scene guard has been in place overnight and a forensic scene examination will begin today.

"Local residents in the rural area will notice an increased Police presence as enquiries continue into the circumstances that led to his death."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police via 105 and quote file number 220613/3065.

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

Earlier 8.30am: A caller to SunLive says that a house in Whakamārama near the Barrett Road turn-off on Old Highway has been cordoned off.

"There are multiple police cars here, and they have their guns out," says the caller.