Wellington, 20 July 2023 (dpa/MIA) - The opening game of the FIFA Women's World Cup will take place as planned in New Zealand on Thursday despite a shooting in Auckland in which three people were killed.

At least three people died after a gunman opened fire at a construction site in Auckland on Thursday at around 7:20 am (1920 GMT Wednesday). The site is near the fan base of the football Women's World Cup, due to kick off later on Thursday.

FIFA said in a statement it extended its "deepest condolences" to the victims who had lost their lives.

"Our thoughts and prayers remain with those who have been injured in this tragic incident."

FIFA said immediately following the incident, President Gianni Infantino and FIFA Secretary-General Fatma Samoura were in communication with New Zealand authorities.

"FIFA has also been in constant contact with the participating teams affected by this incident," the statement said.

"The participating teams in close proximity to this incident are being supported in relation to any impact that may have taken place."

The isolated incident was not related to football operations and the opening match between New Zealand and Norway at Eden Park in Auckland would proceed as planned, FIFA said.

Sport Minister Grant Robertson said police were already "embedded" within the FIFA organizational structure for security purposes.

A number of teams were staying within the immediate area and all were "safe and sound," Robertson said.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said there was no national security risk.

"Clearly with the FIFA World Cup kicking off this evening there are a lot of eyes on Auckland," he said.

"Aucklanders and those watching around the world can be assured the Police have neutralised the threat and they are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident."

Eden Park chief executive Nick Saunter said those attending the opening match could expect an increased security presence.

New Zealand Football said in a statement it was shocked by the incident.

"We can confirm that all of the Football Ferns team and staff are safe but we will not be able to comment further while details are still emerging."

Norway's team, which is staying within 400 metres of the incident, were woken by the police helicopter, captain Maren Mjelde said.

"At first we didn't know what was going on, but eventually there were updates on TV and the local media," Mjelde said.

"We felt safe the whole time. FIFA has a good security system at the hotel, and we have our own security officer in the squad. Everyone seems calm and we are preparing as normal for the game tonight. Then we may have to adapt if there are any instructions from the authorities."

The US team confirmed via Twitter that all its players and staff were accounted for and safe.

"Our security team is in communication with local authorities and we are proceeding with our daily schedule."

Photo: FIFA