A homicide investigation has been launched into the death of an 8-year-old boy in Whakatāne.

Police were called to Whakatāne Hospital yesterday after the child died after an assault, police said in a statement over the weekend.

A 25-year-old woman has since been arrested and has appeared in the Whakatane District Court on Saturday morning. She has been charged with assault.

The woman has been remanded in custody and is due back in court on Wednesday.

The child died in Whakatāne Hospital says police. Photo / NZME

Police say they are not ruling out other charges against other people in relation to the boy’s death.

A scene examination is to be carried out today at a property in the small town of Te Teko.

Police are also appealing to the the public for any information that may help officers with their inquiries and investigation into the incident.

Anyone who has information that could help police is urged to contact authorities immediately on 105 or CrimeStoppers Anonymous: 0800 555 111

-NZ Herald.