A man has been shot dead in his NSW Hunter home in what police believe was a targeted attack.

Emergency services were called to the home in Heddon Greta, near Cessnock, about 11pm on Tuesday, police said.

Paramedics and police treated the 25-year-old man but he died at the scene.

Speaking to reporters outside Cessnock police station on Wednesday, Superintendent Tracy Chapman said the victim had at least one gunshot wound when police arrived.

“At this stage, we don’t believe that this was a random attack. Certainly, it would appear that it was targeted,” she said.

“Members of the community have no reason to be concerned. We do not believe there is any risk to the community.”

The victim was a resident of the house. Five other adults and two children were present on the premises, but none were harmed in the attack, Ms Chapman said.

Police believe it is highly likely the offenders fled the scene in a motor vehicle and have asked for information or dashcam footage from anyone in the area that night.

Specialist forensic police are examining the crime scene.