Police said another person was arrested, but released without charge.
A 44-year-old man has been charged with murder and is due to appear today in the New Plymouth District Court.
A guard was on the scene overnight, and the major highway has been closed for more than 13 hours.
The spokesperson said the street is expected to remain closed this morning.
They also called on anyone who might have witnessed the incident or has information about those involved to contact them on 105, referencing number 251119/8652.
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said St Aubyn St was closed between Egmont St and Liardet St.
“Be prepared to detour via local roads and allow additional time,” NZTA said.
SH44 NEW PLYMOUTH, TARANAKI – POLICE INCIDENT – 8:15PM, WED 19 NOV
SH44 is CLOSED this evening between Egmont St and Liardet St.
Be prepared to detour via local roads and allow additional time for travel through the area this evening.
Overnight updates: https://t.co/IncyXAUCdb pic.twitter.com/1Jm0orVcA4
— NZ Transport Agency – Central North Island (@nztacni) November 19, 2025
This morning, the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is cordoned off from the entrance of its carpark to past the Wind Wand, with a police tent erected over the train tracks.
On the walkway’s platform, which overlooks the sea, only metres from the police tent, a bicycle and a backpack can be seen within the cordon.
Several police officers are on scene, and one is standing guard at the underpass, which connects Pukeariki Landing to the walkway.
Residents on social media said they saw police, ambulances and fire engines swarming the area around 8pm.
A spokesperson from KiwiRail said the investigation was not affecting train services this morning and directed all questions to police.