The man who died after a violent Northcote altercation had also been battling cancer, leaving friends devastated.

Emergency services were called to a Hoani Street address about 9.30pm on 18 February after an incident left 4 people injured.

He was transported to hospital in a critical condition and later died, police confirmed last night.

Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves said officers were called to the property following an altercation involving several people.

“Sadly, that person has now died in hospital. Our thoughts are with their family, who are no doubt devastated. We will continue to provide them with support at this difficult time,” Reeves said.

Police said those involved were associated with 2 separate gangs, however enquiries to date indicated the violence was not gang motivated.

“This appears to be an isolated incident between specific individuals.

“We want to be absolutely clear that any form of retaliation will not be tolerated. Anyone considering taking matters into their own hands should expect an immediate and firm response,” Reeves said.

Police said there was no information to suggest any ongoing risk to the wider public, although they acknowledged the incident may have unsettled residents.

Friend Damian Swan paid tribute to Corey, describing him as a genuine and caring person with a generous nature.

He told chrislynchmedia.com last night that “yes he was a gang member, I once use to be in a gang also but I left to be a Dad to my two kids, Corey knew I used to be in a gang and we both accepted each other as we both have big hearts,” Swan said.

“I would visit him and he would give me items of his to keep and take home, because he knew I appreciated him and treasured anything he gave me.

“He was actually like a knight in shining armour the most.

“For anyone that truly knew him, they would also say he had a big heart and always helped his family and friends and if you were at his house and you felt hungry, he always had a boil up on the stove and it was the best boil ups I ever had in my life.”

Swan said he would remember Corey as someone who cared deeply for others. “It’s a shame he has passed on. I will always remember what a genuine caring man he was.

“He reminded me of myself, always looking out for others. We were both good at hiding our own feelings.

“It’s a shame I couldn’t say goodbye to him but he will always remain in my heart. I only knew him for about a year, but it’s like we knew each other longer as we had a solid bond.”

Corey’s family had earlier created a Givealittle page while he remained in hospital, revealing he had been fighting cancer at the time of the assault.

In the fundraising appeal, relatives described the emotional toll of the incident and their efforts to be by his side.

“Our whānau is going through one of the hardest times of our lives,” the page said.

“Robert Corey Haimona is currently in hospital after a brutal altercation while already battling cancer. As if cancer wasn’t enough, our family is now facing the fear and heartbreak of seeing him fight for his life following this violent altercation.

“No matter his past, Robert is a son, a brother, a father, and someone who has been trying to make positive changes since his cancer diagnosis. He deserves love, support, and the chance to heal — and his family deserves to be by his side during this critical time.”

The page said family members, including his children and sister, needed to travel to be with him, with funds sought to help cover flights, accommodation and daily living costs while staying near the hospital.

Further charges are now being considered against 3 men aged 19, 31 and 40 who were arrested following the incident. Police said the trio remain in custody and are due to reappear in Christchurch District Court on 17 March.