A 46-year-old woman is facing a murder charge - after a woman died in Pukenui, north of Kaitaia early this morning

Police found the victim critically injured at a Houhora Heads Road address, around 12:30am.

She died at the scene - despite efforts from emergency services.

The pair are known to each other - and it's believed the incident is isolated.

Police are increasing their presence in Pukenui, which is less than 60 kilometres from Cape Reinga, while enquiries and a scene examination are underway.

A post-mortem examination and formal identification of the victim will be carried out.

The 46-year-old woman is due in the Kaitaia District Court today.