Police have arrested a 34-year-old man after a shooting in Manurewa last Wednesday.
Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers says at around 8.45pm on 18 February, Police were called to Marumaru Lane after reports a person had been shot.
“The offender has gone to the door and asked for the victim, before allegedly shooting him when he came to the door,” he says.
“The victim was taken to hospital in a serious condition, and was very fortunate to have not suffered life-threatening injuries.”
Enquiries into the incident led to Police to carry out search warrants, supported by the Armed Offenders Squad, in south Auckland on Tuesday afternoon.
“Staff carried out these warrants at properties in Takanini and Manurewa around 3pm,” says Detective Inspector Vickers.
“The alleged offender was not located at either address, but as a result he handed himself into Papakura Police Station not long afterwards and was taken into custody.”
Detective Inspector Vickers is pleased two arrests have now been made over the offending.
“We will not tolerate this type of offending and two people are now before the courts,” he says.
“Further arrests cannot be ruled out as the investigation continues.”
The man will appear in the Manukau District Court today, jointly charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and commission of an offence with a firearm.
A 29-year-old woman, who is co-accused, will also appear in court today after initially being arrested last week.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 February 2026 – In the wake of Budget 2026 and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s announcement of a National AI Council to accelerate mission-driven artificial intelligence deployment, EtonHouse International Education Group has collaborated with OpenAI to roll out ChatGPT Edu across its global education network, establishing a secure, enterprise-grade AI workspace designed to strengthen governance, operational excellence and institutional capability.
Students of EtonHouse using a computer
The implementation spans the Group’s schools and education brands, including EBridge Pre-School, an Anchor Operator, extending AI integration beyond classroom experimentation into enterprise-wide infrastructure supporting operations, marketing and admissions, finance, human resources, school administration and technology development.
While education was not named among the initial priority sectors identified under Singapore’s national AI strategy, EtonHouse views schools as foundational to building long-term AI capability and literacy across society.
Governance-led AI deployment
The rollout has been structured around enterprise governance principles. Access is managed through role-based access controls, single sign-on authentication and automated provisioning, ensuring that AI tools and information remain aligned to defined job responsibilities and permission boundaries.
ChatGPT Edu operates within a centrally managed internal workspace governed by consistent policies across the Group. External sharing and third-party integrations are enabled only where explicitly approved and aligned with business requirements, reinforcing a secure and compliant AI environment.
This governance-first approach reflects a deliberate shift from isolated experimentation to structured, scalable adoption.
From classroom innovation to enterprise infrastructure
EtonHouse previously developed Lumina, its proprietary AI-powered lesson planning platform. The deployment of ChatGPT Edu represents the next phase of integration, extending advanced artificial intelligence capabilities into enterprise functions.
Within the secure workspace, teams can upload documents for structured analysis, generate comparative reports, conduct scenario modelling and retrieve institutional knowledge more efficiently. Technology teams are also leveraging Codex, OpenAI’s agentic coding tool, to enhance development workflows, supporting code drafting, review and testing while maintaining human oversight and established engineering standards.
The Group is concurrently developing internal AI assistants and structured workflows within defined governance parameters to streamline routine processes and standardise how knowledge is accessed and applied across departments.
Augmentation, not replacement
EtonHouse emphasises that artificial intelligence is being implemented as an augmentation layer rather than a substitute for professional judgement.
“Artificial intelligence is not a shortcut or a replacement technology. It is a learning infrastructure,” said Mr Ng Yi-Xian, Group CEO of EtonHouse International Education Group. “We are developing tools that help students learn more confidently, support teachers to plan and differentiate more effectively, and equip HQ teams to serve schools faster and with higher quality. AI should amplify good practice, not replace it, so we are building the governance and capability to deploy it responsibly at scale.”
The rollout will be supported by structured staff training alongside OpenAI experts clear usage guidelines and ongoing oversight to ensure transparency, responsible usage and alignment with internal policies and regulatory obligations.
“As Singapore advances its national AI ambitions, many institutions are working to bridge the gap between rapidly advancing AI technologies and their ability to deploy them effectively and responsibly. EtonHouse’s rollout of ChatGPT Edu shows how forward-thinking education organisations can translate AI into practical, trusted enterprise-wide systems that empower teams today, while building confidence for the long-term.” added Oliver Jay, Managing Director, International at OpenAI.
Education’s role in Singapore’s AI future
Budget 2026 outlined the formation of a National AI Council to guide coordinated deployment across priority sectors including advanced manufacturing, connectivity, finance and healthcare.
EtonHouse’s implementation reflects how education institutions can apply similar principles of governance, security and enterprise readiness, positioning schools not only as adopters of technology but as contributors to Singapore’s broader AI capability building.
With this move, EtonHouse signals a transition from exploratory AI usage to secure, scalable integration across its global network, reinforcing its commitment to innovation anchored in institutional discipline and responsible deployment.
Numerous hours of scouring video footage has led to the arrest of a woman in relation to retail crimes in Thames.
Yesterday, Police arrested and charged a 52-year-old woman following multiple shoplifting incidents dating back over the past month.
“This type of offending, especially at this large scale, has a big negative impact on our local businesses and I’m pleased with this outcome,” says Inspector Mike Henwood, Eastern Waikato Area Commander.
The woman was due to appear in Thames District Court today, charged with 20 counts of wilful trespass, and two counts of speaking threateningly.
“I commend the tenacious work of local Police staff to pull these, and other investigations, together to prosecute offenders.
“Recidivist retail thieves are not tolerated – by business owners, their honest customers, or Police – and this highlights Police’s commitment to target and hold these offenders to account,” Inspector Henwood says.
If you witness any retail crime, or any other crime, please call 111 if it is happening now or for historic offending, please make a report, with as much information as possible, either online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 or by calling 105.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police have arrested and charged a 16-year-old male following an aggravated robbery at a commercial premises in Palmerston North at the weekend.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson says at around 2pm on Saturday 21 February, Police were called to the premises on The Square after a person armed with a knife and hammer entered the store.
“Using the hammer, the alleged offender smashed one of the display cabinets, taking several phones before running out of the store.
“Police were able to identify the youth through various avenues of inquiry, including available CCTV footage.“
The youth was located and arrested yesterday.
He has been referred to Youth Aid.
“These types of crimes are incredibly frightening for those working in the store at the time, and this robbery is no different.
“We understand other store owners would have been unnerved by this occurring. We are hopeful that the quick arrest will go some way to provide reassurance that Police will take prompt action to hold those responsible to account.”
North Shore Police have arrested a man over alleged indecent assaults against high school students and a staff member in recent months.
Quick reporting meant units quickly caught up with the man in the Milford area last week.
Relieving Waitematā East Area Commander Mike Rickards says the staff member was on duty on the afternoon of 16 February, outside the school.
“A man has allegedly indecently assaulted the teacher before she confronted him,” he says.
“The alarm has been raised when other teachers saw this confrontation and immediately contacted 111.
“Our units responded urgently into the area, locating a man in the vicinity.”
The 64-year-old west Auckland man was soon arrested.
Inspector Rickards says the man has been charged with doing an indecent act.
Monday’s arrest resulted in enquiries progressing into a series of similar events on 11 November 2025.
“An extensive investigation was carried out to identify a man who had allegedly carried out similar behaviour, directed towards several high school students on the same day,” Inspector Rickards says.
Those enquiries were unable to locate the man responsible at the time.
On Friday, detectives from Waitematā East CIB laid two additional indecent assault charges against this man.
He has also been charged with assault over a separate incident allegedly involving an elderly woman at St Lukes, also in November 2025.
Inspector Rickards says: “I want to directly acknowledge the school community despite these awful events.
“The students did the right thing at the end of last year and reported the offending, this information informed the school network so on Monday staff sprang into action.”
The 64-year-old man has appeared in the North Shore District, and will reappear on new charges on 27 February.
Attribute to West Coast Area Investigations Manager, Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Brent Lyford:
Police are appealing for information following an unprovoked assault at an address in Greymouth on the weekend.
On Saturday 21 February, around 11.15pm, Police received a report that man had entered an address on Reid Street, Blaketown and assaulted one of the occupants, before being confronted by another occupant and leaving.
The assault victim sustained minor injuries, and the pair are understandably very shaken by the incident.
Police have conducted initial enquiries, including assessing available CCTV footage, but have been unable to identify the offender and are now seeking the public’s assistance.
The man is described to be in his 40s, Caucasian, and of medium build. He was reported to be wearing a black short sleeved rugby-type top and long pants. He has dark short hair, and his face appeared to be dirty.
The home occupants also describe the man to be disoriented and seemed under the influence.
Police are asking for anyone that has seen a man matching this description, or any suspicious behaviour, in the Reid Street or immediate areas on Saturday 21 February. Alternatively, if this was you, please get in touch.
Eagle-eyed Police who spotted a vehicle driving with no lights on through the streets of Papakura overnight have taken a pair into custody.
At about 12.30am, a vehicle travelling with its lights off sped past a Police car on Great South Road.
Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says units did not attempt to stop the stolen vehicle and instead initiated assistance from the Police Eagle helicopter.
“Eagle located the vehicle still travelling at excess speed with its lights off, narrowly avoiding a collision with another vehicle.
“The vehicle has then turned into Glenburn Place where two occupants bailed out while it was still moving, causing it to crash through a fence.”
Inspector Hoyes says the pair allegedly attempted to flee through neighbouring properties.
“Unfortunately for them, we had our eyes in the sky who were able to direct staff on the ground to their locations and they were both taken into custody without incident.
“If you see any dangerous driving activity please contact Police on 111 if it’s happening now or 105 if it’s after the fact.”
Two youths, both aged 14, have been referred to Youth Aid Services.
Police are seeking the public’s assistance to locate John Joseph Paparoa, who is wanted in relation to dishonesty, assault and firearm-related offending.
The 52-year-old is believed to be actively avoiding arrest, but Police are also concerned for his welfare.
Anyone who sees Paparoa, or knows where he may be hiding, is asked to contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 250131/8937.
Information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers, by calling 0800 555 111.
New move-on powers for Police, announced today, are a key part of the Government’s action plan to create a thriving Auckland city centre, Auckland Minister Simeon Brown says.
“Move-on orders give Police an important tool to address antisocial behaviour that makes people feel unsafe. When people are intimidating others, blocking doorways, or engaging in threatening behaviour, Police need the ability to act.
“These powers build on the work already underway through our city centre action plan announced last year and will help restore confidence that Auckland’s CBD is a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place for families, workers and visitors.
“Auckland’s city centre is a vital part of New Zealand’s economy, contributing around 8 percent of our GDP and serving as the gateway to our tourism sector. Ensuring the CBD is safe and welcoming for those who live, work, and visit is essential.”
The city centre action plan is already seeing good progress in making the city centre safer and more welcoming.
146 people have been placed into housing through our Housing First initiative by the end of January – up from 33 when the plan was announced in November last year.
Crime victimisations have fallen from 1,010 in January 2024 to 638 in December 2025, with a new Police Station opened in the CBD last year and Police increasingly on the beat.
“Our approach balances support with accountability. We’re helping those who need housing and mental health services, while taking firm action against behaviour that intimidates others.
“Auckland Council has also made good progress improving city centre safety, including redesigning Pocket Park to reduce anti-social behaviour, and ensuring street lighting and cameras cross the CBD are operational to support Police.
“Our city centre has never been more important. The International Convention Centre has recently opened, the City Rail Link opens this year, and cruise ships are bringing thousands of visitors into Auckland.
“I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the progress we’ve seen so far – from frontline Police and outreach workers to council staff and community groups. While we’re heading in the right direction, there’s still more work to do to ensure Auckland’s city centre is a place where everyone feels safe and welcome.
A prolific burglar allegedly targeting a west Auckland retirement village is facing numerous charges in court.
The arrest comes as Police investigate other burglaries at villages across the Auckland region.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting, Waitematā West Area Investigations Manager, says five charges have been laid so far.
“We have been investigating a spree of offending on one day in late January, where five residents were allegedly targeted in their residences,” he says.
“Three residents have been the victims of burglaries with expensive jewellery and cash allegedly stolen.”
Police estimate the offending to be valued at nearly $8,000.
The 60-year-old has been charged with three counts of burglary and two counts of being unlawfully in a building.
She will appear in the Waitākere District Court today.
Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says following Thursday’s arrest, enquiries are ongoing into recent burglaries reported at other Auckland retirement villages.
Further charges cannot be ruled out, he says.
“It’s unfortunate when vulnerable members of the community are targeted in this matter, and we will oppose the woman’s bail at her court appearance.”
Remain vigilant:
Recent burglaries are a reminder for residents at retirement villages to be cautious.
“It’s important that residents be mindful of people who might be out of place in these villages, and keep an eye out for your neighbours,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says.
“Never let someone inside your unit unless you know who they are or have confirmed their identity with management.
“I’m encouraging families to check in on their loved ones and reiterate this advice.”
Always keep your valuables hidden and secure wherever possible.
Southern District Police urge people in rural areas of Clutha and Gore to keep an eye out after reports of multiple burglaries.
A number of burglaries in the heart of Southland are under investigation. Offenders have targeted fuel and equipment on farming properties in the Clutha and Gore districts.
Sergeant Tim Coudret, from Southern District Police, urges people to help Police by reporting suspicious behaviour.
“If you see something, say something.
“Look around you and let us know if you notice something, or someone, out of the ordinary.”
Suspicious or illegal activity should be reported by calling 111 immediately if it’s happening now, or via 105 if it’s afterwards.
“We’ve had an increase in reports of burglaries lately.
“Update your inventory of farm equipment, including model and serial numbers.
“Lock up, even if you’re still on the property, and call 111 if you see something happening.”
Sergeant Coudret says there are crime prevention actions you can take to secure your home and buildings.
He recommends that you keep an eye out, reduce the risk of theft, keep in touch with neighbours and report anything that you find suspicious.
“If it looks dodgy it probably is dodgy, no matter how minor, we want to know.”
Attribute to Western Bay of Plenty Area Investigations Manager, Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown:
Police have arrested and charged a man today in relation to the death of Dax Holland, after his body was found at Wharepai Domain on Saturday 14 February.
The 24-year-old has been charged with murder and is due to appear in Tauranga District Court tomorrow [21 February].
Police still want to hear from anyone who may have seen any unusual or suspicious behaviour around the Wharepai Domain before to 2pm on Saturday 14 February.
If you have information that may assist with our investigation, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 260214/8937.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers, on 0800 555 111.
WorkSafe New Zealand has now officially begun an investigation into work health and safety at Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park in the lead up to the landslide on January 22.
It follows completion of the recovery operation by Police on 1 February.
“We have taken time to be clear about what sits within our remit. Our investigation will focus on work‑related matters prior to the landslide,” says WorkSafe’s central regional manager, Nigel Formosa.
WorkSafe will establish whether there has been a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 by businesses and organisations related to the operation of the holiday park. This will include engaging technical experts and gathering information from a range of sources.
“Our team is focused on understanding the decisions and circumstances that shaped the work environment at the holiday park before the landslide. We’re committed to carrying out a careful, methodical investigation that stays grounded in evidence and the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, for the victims and their whānau. This will take time, but it’s important we complete a thorough investigation,” says Nigel Formosa.
The post-recovery scene of the landslide at Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park.
WorkSafe has already started to engage with Tauranga City Council as the operator of the holiday park. The roles of other parties will also be considered in the coming months.
This health and safety investigation is independent from both the Government inquiry and Tauranga City Council’s external review which have recently been initiated.
WorkSafe investigations can take up to 12 months from the date of an incident. Given the amount of information and technical expertise involved, we expect this investigation to take a full year.
WorkSafe would like to thank New Zealand Police for their ongoing support. We’ll continue to work closely with them as we carry out our respective roles.
About WorkSafe New Zealand
WorkSafe New Zealand is the country’s primary regulator for health and safety at work. Our role is to influence businesses and workers to meet their responsibilities to ensure work is healthy and safe. We provide guidance, investigate serious incidents, and take enforcement action when necessary. We work with businesses, workers, and industry to reduce work-related harm and ensure all New Zealanders return home safely.
Attribute to Kāpiti Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins:
Police investigating an assault in Cannons Creek this morning are seeking information from the public to assist our investigation.
Just before 7:40am, Police were called to Dido Place after reports of a firearm being discharged.
One person sustained moderate injuries, they are now stable in hospital.
Residents can expect to see an ongoing Police presence as our investigations progress.
There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public following this incident.
Police would like to hear from anybody who witnessed the incident, as well as those who were in and around Dido Place and the surrounding areas at the time of the incident.
Information can be provided to Police via 105 either over the phone or online, quoting the reference number 260220/7899.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Two months on after roadside drug driving testing was introduced in Wellington, Police continue to gain valuable operational knowledge and are evaluating processes on this new and important road safety tool.
Since implementing testing in mid-December 2025 to further bolster road safety efforts, more than 300 screening tests have been completed. As of 18 February 2026, seven infringements have been issued.
“Overall, there has been positive and valuable feedback from the public across the Wellington region and from our frontline staff involved with roadside drug driving testing,” says Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing.
“The operational insights gained since December have been beneficial, and will feed into the national rollout which starts in April this year. We will be testing across New Zealand by mid-2026.
“National drug-driving testing will further bolster our policing efforts in making roads safer for all, and deterring drivers who are impaired whether by drugs or alcohol from endangering the lives of others.”
Testing remains ongoing in locations spanning across the broader Wellington region, from Kapiti, Porirua, Wellington City, Hutt Valley, and all the way through to Masterton.
“Drivers cannot use a prescription or medical note at the roadside to stop them from undergoing a test or to dispute a positive saliva screening test result.
“The message is still the same for drivers who drive impaired by drugs – don’t take drugs and drive,” says Superintendent Greally.
“You need to know what you are taking and how it might affect driving and any period of time where it is unsafe to drive.
“If you intend to get behind the wheel after consuming impairing drugs, you will be caught.”