Police have located an explosive device in the house where the fatal fire occurred at Mangamuka early this morning.
About 2.30pm yesterday police received reports of a firearm being discharged from a property at Mangamuka following a dispute over a trespass matter.
The Armed Offenders Squad was called in and began negotiating with the occupier of the address.
About 12.30am this morning a fire was noticed inside the house. AOS attempted to enter the address to rescue the occupant. However, they had to pull back due to a number of explosions.
The Fire Service attended and once the fire was put out police were able to enter the house. They located a body inside the house.
Northland Police Criminal Investigations Manager Inspector Kevin Burke says the explosive device, believed to be a grenade, was found when police entered the house.
Mr Burke says the New Zealand Defence Force Bomb Disposal Unit is now on its way from Auckland to dispose of the grenade and check that the house is safe before police can carry out a scene examination.
Cordons remain in place around the property.
For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 945 4650 or 021 192 1099.