Boy, 17, charged with murder after suspected 'targeted' stabbing attack near Gwydir Hwy in northern NSW

A boy has been charged with murder following an alleged fatal stabbing in northern New South Wales.

Emergency services were called to Gwydir Highway near Hay Street, Waterview, in Grafton about 1am on Wednesday following reports of an assault.

Officers discovered a 35-year-old with stab wounds after he was attacked by unknown people while walking along the street.

Despite the man being given medical assistance by paramedics, he died at the scene.

Strike force detectives commenced an investigation, locating and seizing a knife, a metal pole and the handle of an axe at the crime scene.

Police indicate initial inquires point towards a targeted stabbing.

About 2.40pm on Wednesday, strike force detectives conducted a search warrant at a property on Bent Street, South Grafton.

The search