A man has died after he was stabbed in the street in northern New South Wales overnight.

At about 1am, emergency services were called to the Gwydir Highway near Hay Street, Waterview, Grafton, following reports of an assault.

Police found a 35-year-old man who had been stabbed by unknown people while walking along the street.

He died at the scene.

The attack is believed to have been targeted.

An investigation is underway and drivers are urged to avoid the area this morning as police investigate the crime scene.

Anybody with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online .

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