Connor Whitehead is being remembered as a student who had a heart of gold

The Burnside High School teenager was shot outside a Christchurch property on Friday night while attending a birthday party.

The 16-year-old died at the scene.

Principal Phil Holstein says as the school community mourns his loss, counselling and safe spaces for students are available.

He says students and staff are subdued as they reflect on how they're feeling.

Meanwhile, the person understood to be the shooter is in hospital with injuries sustained during his arrest, but no charges have yet been laid.

Three people have been charged with being accessories after the fact and have been remanded in custody without plea to appear in the High Court on November 26.

A fifth person is still on the run.