West Australian police are investigating the sudden death of a New Zealand bouncer at a Geraldton nightclub.

Inspector George Putland said the venue was closed but staff were having after-work drinks at The Nitey when the 36-year-old collapsed about 9.30am yesterday, the West Australian newspaper reported.

Despite colleagues' efforts to revive him, he was dead when paramedics arrived.

Mr Putland said it appeared the man had suffered a heart attack but detectives at Geraldton are investigating to make sure the man's death was not drug-related.

The New Zealander worked at the nearby The Vibe nightclub but had gathered with colleagues at The Nitey, the newspaper reported.