The atmosphere in Waitarere is tense as the community comes to terms with the death of ten year-old Alex Fisher.

His body was found on Thursday at Waitarere Beach after a three-day search.

Community spokesman Chuck Wareham said the atmosphere in the small tight-knit town of 600 has changed.

He said the community previously felt very safe but things changed over night. 

"A lot of people feel that its just taken away something from the community."

He said it'll take some time for things to get back to normal.

A service and vigil are being planned for tomorrow night.

A police team of around 20 is working over the weekend on the investigation into Fisher's death.

Police said they'll be working at the beach over the weekend, and have removed a number of items of interest.

The detective leading the team said while it is a homicide inquiry, investigators are keeping an open mind about exactly what occurred.

An 0800 number has been set up for information to be provided from the public which might assist the ongoing homicide investigation in Waiterere.

The number is 0800 234 7437.

A community in mourning will hold a vigil on Sunday night for Alex Fisher.

Waitarere Domain will host the vigil, which will start at 7pm, with religious leaders welcoming those attending.

Police will then address the crowd, before a play group plants a tree, and members of the Poroutawhao School community sing a waiata.

At 7.44 candles will be lit in remembrance of Alex.