Category: Police

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Appeal for information following assault, Napier

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Acting Detective Sergeant Emma Wiltshire – Hawke’s Bay CIB: 

Police are appealing for information following an assault in Meeanee, Napier, last week.

On Friday 6 March, Police received a report of an assault that occurred just before 7.30am, on the Limestone Track, between Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road.

Thankfully, the victim was able to get to safety uninjured, however they are understandably very shaken by the incident.

Police have conducted initial enquiries but have been unable to locate the offender and are now asking for the public’s help.

Police are looking for a man described to be in his late 40s, Caucasian with bright blue eyes. He has short black spikey hair, shorter on the sides than on top, and short dark grey facial hair that covered his cheeks, moustache, and chin area.

He is skinny to average build and approximately 6ft/182cm tall. He was reported to be wearing a black trenchcoat, a dark grey scarf, black pants, and black leather-type shoes. The trenchcoat had buttons down the front and deep pockets on the side.

If you have seen this man, witnessed this incident, or have any information about who he is or his whereabouts, please contact Police. We also want to speak with the owner of a white ute [pictured] that was nearby when this assault took place.

Additionally, if you have CCTV or dashcam footage of the Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road areas, between 7am and 8am on Friday 6 March, please get in touch so that we may review that footage.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260307/3213.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/appeal-for-information-following-assault-napier/

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Update, aggravated robbery, Whanganui

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Nadine Staples, Whanganui CIB:

Police have arrested and charged three people in relation to an aggravated robbery in Castlecliff, Whanganui.

On Wednesday 4 March, around 6.10pm, Police were called with a report of an aggravated robbery that had occurred at a premises on Polson Street.

It is alleged that the offenders entered the premises and stole a number of cigarettes and bottles of alcohol, before fleeing the scene on a quad bike which has now been located.

Police previously arrested one youth in relation to the incident. Two more men, both 18, are now due in Whanganui District Court. One on 31 March charged with aggravated robbery.

The other on 16 April, charged with unlawful possession of ammunition/firearm, cannabis possession and receiving stolen property.

Enquiries remain ongoing and Police are not ruling out further arrests or charges.

Police are asking for anyone who has information about the incident, or who recognises the people in these images, to please get in touch.

You can provide information through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260304/4451 – or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/update-aggravated-robbery-whanganui/

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Rotorua Police out in numbers, arrests made

Source: New Zealand Police

Police were out in numbers Wednesday night mitigating a gang gathering in the Rotorua area, as well as making a number of great arrests on unrelated matters.

A large group of gang members began gathering in Rotorua on Wednesday, but they weren’t Police’s only focus of the night, officers made seven arrests unrelated to the gathering, summonsed one person to court, and impounded a vehicle.

Officers will continue to have a visible presence in Rotorua today as the gang moves on through to Ōpōtiki.

A 30-year-old man was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, utensils for use, a firearm, and an offensive weapon, following a call to Police reporting suspicious behaviour on Aquarius Drive. He is due to reappear in Rotorua District Court on 27 March.

In a separate incident, around 9pm, Police saw a vehicle traveling in the Western Heights area that had been reported stolen the day before. When signalled to stop, the driver attempted to flee, Police pursued the vehicle, and it was spiked before coming to a stop on Harrold Crescent. Two youth were arrested.

A further three people were located and arrested on warrants to arrest, another was arrested for breach of conditions, and a final person had their vehicle impounded and has been summonsed to court for driving while disqualified.

Inspector Tristan Murray says just because there are officers in the area focused on ensuring there are no issues with the gang gathering, doesn’t mean any other matters or offending will fly under the radar.

“Police remain focused on the safety of the community, and we will continue to work hard to disrupt all illegal activity and hold offenders to account, whether it’s gang members or otherwise” he says.

Anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour is urged to call 111 immediately. Any reports after the fact can be done through 105 with as much information as possible, either online or over the phone.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/rotorua-police-out-in-numbers-arrests-made/

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Appeal for information following damage to vehicles, Clive

Source: New Zealand Police

Hawke’s Bay Police investigating unlawful interference with vehicles in Clive are appealing for information to assist enquiries.

Detective Gabrielle Parsons says Police are investigating damage involving parked vehicles over the past week on Ferry Road, Tucker Lane, Allens Lane, Sutton Avenue and State Highway 51.

“The damage has mainly been done overnight.

“Windows have been smashed, vehicles rummaged through, and in some cases ignition was damaged.”

Police are conducting enquiries into the incidents to identify and locate those responsible.

“If you recognise anyone in these pictures, we believe they can assist us with our enquiries, please get in touch.”

We ask anyone who has seen suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles, or who has dashcam/CCTV footage from these streets between 6 and 12 March, to contact us as soon as possible.

Detective Parsons says it’s a good time to remember to park your vehicle off the street if possible, remove valuable items and lock it.

“Exterior lighting and operational CCTV help too, and if you see any suspicious behaviour as it’s happening please report it immediately on 111.”

Other information can be provided to Police online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking ‘Update Report’ or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number 260307/3517.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/appeal-for-information-following-damage-to-vehicles-clive/

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Two for the price of one

Source: New Zealand Police

Police on the lookout for a stolen vehicle ended up locating not just the vehicle they were on the hunt for, but another luxury vehicle valued at more than $100,000.

At about 11.40pm, a unit was conducting patrols in the Flat Bush area looking for a Mercedes Benz, which had been reported stolen the previous day.

Detective Inspector Karen Bright, Counties Manukau CIB, says officers were making a number of enquiries and located the vehicle parked on Whakatupu Road.

“The vehicle was displaying altered number plates and officers have then conducted an enquiry at a nearby address, where the keys to the stolen Mercedes Benz were found.

“Officers also located a second stolen vehicle, another Mercedes Benz station wagon valued at more than $100,000.”

Detective Inspector Bright says two people were quickly taken into custody.

“We refuse to tolerate offending of this nature.

“This is a fantastic result and we’re pleased these people can be held to account.”

A 32-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman have been charged with aggravated robbery and will appear in Manukau District Court today.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/two-for-the-price-of-one/

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Human remains identified, Coppermine Island

Source: New Zealand Police

Human remains located on Coppermine Island (Mauipane), east of Whangārei have been identified as belonging to a person who went missing in May 2024.

On 20 December 2025, a member of the Department of Conservation contacted Police after finding the remains on the island.

The remains have since been examined by a pathologist, anthropologist, and ESR scientists as we worked to identify who the person was.

Following the examination, the human remains have now been confirmed as those of missing person Ferzil Babu, who went missing while on a fishing trip at The Gap, Taiharuru on 1 May 2024.

Police have since spoken with Ferzil’s family to inform them of the finding.

Police extend their sympathies to his loved ones at this difficult time.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/human-remains-identified-coppermine-island/

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Statement following the sentencing of Manase Muimui Folou Uaisele

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Hastings Child Protection Supervisor, Detective Sergeant Kate Hyde:

Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Manase Uaisele in Napier District Court today.

The 33-year-old was sentenced to five years and five months’ imprisonment after being found guilty of 12 charges relating to sexual offending and indecently assaulting multiple young girls.

Police would like to thank the victims and their families for working so closely with Police throughout the investigation process.

It takes a great deal of courage to come forward and stand up to your abuser, and these brave actions of the victims has not only led to holding Uaisele to account but may have also protected other children from suffering how they did.

While this does not change the damage that Uaisele has caused, Police hope the victims are able to find some closure in this outcome to hopefully help during their healing process.

This matter has now been concluded in Court, however, Police will take further complaints should any other victims come forward.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/statement-following-the-sentencing-of-manase-muimui-folou-uaisele/

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Drug arrests in rural Southland

Source: New Zealand Police

Police discovered drugs and firearms following search warrants in and around Gore and Riversdale.

Over the past two days Eastern Southland Police targeted drug suppliers.

Operation Nightforce was assisted by extra staff from the District and a drug detection dog from Te Waipounamu.

Senior Sergeant Gary Iddenten from Southern Police says the operation targeted several addresses and that two people were arrested without incident.

“We found cannabis cultivation, a firearm and other Class A and B drugs.”

A 20-year-old man is in custody and will appear in Invercargill District Court on 25 March to face over 20 drug possession and supply charges.

A 39-year-old woman was also arrested for breach of bail for previous active charges.

Senior Sergeant Iddenten says investigations are continuing and that further prosecutions are expected.

“We will continue to target those who supply drugs no matter where you live.

“Substances like these have the potential to cause extreme harm and damage in our communities.

“If anyone in the public knows of those supplying drugs in our communities, please contact us on 105.”

Information can also be reported to your local Police station or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

We also encourage anyone affected by drug addiction to seek help though the Alcohol and Drug helpline on 0800 787 797, or free text 8681.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Team

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/drug-arrests-in-rural-southland/

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Man remanded in custody after alleged attack

Source: New Zealand Police

A man faces serious charges after an alleged attack on an Auckland woman at the weekend.

Operation Moller commenced on Sunday, after a member of the public located the woman injured and distressed in the remote Cornwallis area just after 7am.

Acting Detective Inspector Megan Goldie, from Waitematā CIB, says the woman was taken to a nearby Police station with several injuries and was transferred to hospital.

“This has been a sensitive and complex investigation, and our team has worked quickly to progress our enquiry and identify a person of interest,” she says.

“This has included analysis of CCTV footage between central Auckland and west Auckland.

“Police completed a detailed scene examination in part of the Cornwallis earlier this week.”

Detectives located and arrested a 49-year-old man in the Mt Eden area on Wednesday night.

He has been put before the Waitākere District Court on charges including abduction for sex, impedes breathing and injuring with intent to injure.

“Police have successfully opposed this man’s bail, and we can reassure the wider public that he is not in the community,” acting Detective Inspector Goldie says.

“The charges themselves speak to a distressing ordeal that the victim has been through, and we will continue to support her through the next part of the process.

“I want to acknowledge the woman who came to the victim’s aid, and others who have assisted us in progressing the investigation.

“This is a sensitive matter and given there are matters before the Court we are unable to comment further in detail.”

Police enquiries will continue, and further charges cannot be ruled out at this time.

The 49-year-old man will reappear in court on 29 April 2026.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/man-remanded-in-custody-after-alleged-attack/

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Four before the courts after failing to appear, Coromandel Peninsula

Source: New Zealand Police

Four people are facing the courts following the first of many Police operations in Eastern Waikato today.

Police conducted a number of search warrants in the Coromandel Peninsula, today, in an operation targeting offenders with warrants to arrest or who have failed to turn up to Court recently.

As a result, four arrests were made in the Whitianga and Coromandel township areas which included two women aged 29 and 33, and two men aged 32 and 35.

Eastern Waikato Area Commander, Inspector Mike Henwood says the offenders had avoided Court appearances on various assault, burglary, and theft charges.

“Some offenders take advantage of remote locations to evade the courts, and it can be problematic at time for a couple local Police officers to successfully locate and arrest them.

“Police staff from the wider East Area were brought in and supported local Police to clear multiple addresses.

“Support like this for our local people ensures offenders can’t avoid us forever – even in the picturesque Coromandel,” says Inspector Henwood.

“I would like to thank all staff involved in these arrests and reassure the community that this doesn’t end here – we will continue to target any offenders that are attempting to evade Police, you can expect to see us anywhere, anytime.”

Both the women and men are held in custody due to appear in Hamilton District Court tomorrow.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/four-before-the-courts-after-failing-to-appear-coromandel-peninsula/

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Gang members arrested after Bay of Plenty memorial run

Source: New Zealand Police

Persistent Police visibility and strong enforcement sent a clear message to gang members as they came into town for a memorial run last weekend – Police are watching, and we’ll take action when we need to.

The group travelled to the Bay of Plenty District ahead of an event in the small township of Murupara across 7 and 8 March.

In the Bay of Plenty there were several arrests, including three for displaying gang insignia, two for driving with excess breath alcohol, one for obstruction and three for driving while forbidden. A number of infringement notices were also issued.

More than 30 vehicle stops were carried out alongside more than 270 breath tests.

Acting Murupara officer in charge, Detective Sergeant Nathan Marten, said the police visibility and presence was noticed by locals.

“We heard from residents that extra Police in town provided a sense of reassurance. Our high visibility also meant that those involved knew their behaviour was being watched.

“We want our communities to be safe, and we know that sometimes large groups of gang members coming into town can feel intimidating to say the least.

“We’re committed to ensuring everyone feels safe, and holding those who offend to account wherever possible.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/gang-members-arrested-after-bay-of-plenty-memorial-run/

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Forty-nine new cops march out in March.

Source: New Zealand Police

Friends and family members came from all over New Zealand today and celebrated alongside the newly attested constables of the 393 recruit wing at the Royal New Zealand Police College in Porirua.

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers addressed the graduating wing alongside Associate Minister of Police, the Honourable Casey Costello, members of the police executive and wing patron, Keven Mealamu MNZM.

Top award winner and first in wing Constable Aaron Rock swapped his career in firefighting and emergency medical (EMT) work for a new role in Policing.

“I will be forever grateful for my family’s sacrifices and unwavering support. They push me constantly to become a better version of myself. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love.”

Aaron will be based in Central District.

Leadership Award Winner, Constable Harawira Smith -Ngāti Kahungunu and Te Arawa, says “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Aotearoa. I am proud to stand alongside every member of wing 393.”

Harawira will be based in the  Bay of Plenty.

Deployment:
The new constables will start their first day of duty in their Police districts on the week beginning Monday 23 March 2026 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables.

Tāmaki Makaurau receives a total of 19 new officers (Auckland City 5, Waitematā 7, Counties Manukau 7), Waikato 5, Bay of Plenty 6, Eastern 1, Central 7, Wellington 8, Tasman 2, Southern 1.

All Awards:
Minister’s Award recognising top student: Constable Aaron Rock posted to Central District.
Commissioner’s Award for Leadership: Constable Harawira Smith posted to Bay of Plenty District.
Patron’s Award recognising second top student: Constable D’arcy Murray posted to Bay of Plenty District.
The Firearms Award: Constable Jovarn Simmonds posted to Wellington District.
Driver Training and Road Policing Practice Award: Constable Alfred Cathro posted to Wellington District.
Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award: Constable Luke Cherrington posted to Tasman District.

Demographics:
30.6 percent are female, 69.4 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 69.4 percent of the wing, with Māori 4.1 percent, Pasifika 4.1 percent, Asian 20.4 percent, LAAM 2.0 percent.

Patron:
Keven Mealamu MNZM is a proud man of faith and family. A former All Black with over 100 test caps, he brings the values of teamwork, resilience, and discipline from rugby into business, governance, and community leadership. Keven has built and led ventures in health, wellbeing, and creative industries, while serving on boards and advisory groups that navigate complex strategic and cultural challenges.
As owner and director of FIT60HQ Gym and Protect For Life Insurance Brokers, he is passionate about helping whānau and businesses safeguard their futures, focusing on legacy, prosperity, and socially responsible decision-making. Keven is committed to strengthening people, organisations, and communities across Aotearoa. Keven was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in 2016 for services to rugby.

Watch out for our Ten One graduation story coming soon with more images and details.

Issued by Police Media Centre

ENDS

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/forty-nine-new-cops-march-out-in-march/

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Illegal driver, weapons, drugs and vehicle

Source: New Zealand Police

When Police stopped a driver, it led to the discovery of a vehicle full of illegal items.

After stopping a vehicle on Friday, Police arrested the driver for driving while disqualified.

Police also noticed a long barrel firearm tucked down by a seat.

A search found more including a slug gun, hatchet, a loaded .22 rifle and a homemade 12-gauge pipe gun.

All items were seized, the driver was taken to the station and the vehicle was impounded.

A 34-year-old man will appear in Hamilton District Court on 1 April charged with possession of a firearms, ammunition and other offensive weapons, and driving disqualified.

Police continue to encourage people to report any suspicious behaviour on 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/illegal-driver-weapons-drugs-and-vehicle/

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Four accused in Gulf Harbour body in bag case argue to have their manslaughter charges dismissed

Source: Radio New Zealand

The victim, Shulai Wang, 70, of China Supplied / Police

Four people charged with manslaughter, over the death of a woman whose body was found in the water in Aukcland’s Gulf Harbour, have made arguments to have their charges dismissed.

The body of 70-year-old Shulai Wang wrapped in black plastic bags was discovered by a fisherman in March 2024.

Two men and two women were facing charges of kidnapping and manslaughter.

The hearing for the defendants’ application to stay charges took place at the High Court at Auckland on Thursday, just months out from the trial set down for May.

All details of the hearing were suppressed.

Justice Mathew Downs reserved his decision.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/four-accused-in-gulf-harbour-body-in-bag-case-argue-to-have-their-manslaughter-charges-dismissed/

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Statement on behalf of the Leman family

Source: New Zealand Police

Today’s verdict brings justice for Richard.

Nothing will ever undo what was done to him, and nothing will ever bring him back to the people who loved him. Richard was not just a name in a courtroom or a case in a trial. He was a son, a father, a brother, an uncle, and a man who was deeply loved by those closest to him.

For weeks we have had to sit through the most confronting and painful evidence imaginable. We have been forced to hear and see the devastating reality of how Richard’s life was taken. No family should ever have to endure that.

Today, the jury has recognised the truth of what happened. Someone has been held accountable for Richard’s death.

While this verdict cannot heal the grief we carry, it does acknowledge that Richard’s life mattered and that what happened to him cannot simply be ignored.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the Police who worked tirelessly to investigate Richard’s death and ensure the truth was brought before the court. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Crown for presenting the evidence and to the Judge for overseeing this difficult process.

We would also like to acknowledge Victim Support, who were with us throughout the trial process and supported us during this incredibly difficult time.

Today we remember Richard not only as a victim in this case, but as the son, father, brother and uncle he was to those who loved him.

He mattered. His life mattered. And today, justice has recognised that.

At this time, we will not be making any further comments to the media as we continue navigating this incredibly difficult journey together as a family.

ENDS

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/statement-on-behalf-of-the-leman-family/

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Man arrested over Whangārei firearms incident

Source: New Zealand Police

A man will face court today following a firearms incident at a Morningside property last week.

Whangārei CIB have been investigating the isolated incident which allegedly occurred on 3 March.

Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer says the following day, it was reported to Police a firearm had been allegedly discharged at the property.

“Enquiries were carried out, which resulted in the search of a motor vehicle and the recovery of the firearm used,” he says.

“Police also established a woman presented at hospital with a serious injury to her foot, which required surgery.”

Over the past week, enquiries have been ongoing to locate the alleged offender.

Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says Police checked a Raumanga address on Wednesday afternoon.

“Our staff were supported by the Offender Prevention Team (OPT) and located a person of interest.”

The 30-year-old man was arrested and has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, reckless discharge of a firearm and driving while disqualified.

He will appear in the Whangārei District Court today.

“It’s a great outcome for the community that the man is now in custody and the firearm is also out of circulation,” Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says.

A second man, aged 35, is also before the Whangārei District Court after allegedly being found in possession of a firearm and being an accessory after the fact.

The man was arrested on Thursday as part of enquiries into the original incident in Morningside.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/man-arrested-over-whangarei-firearms-incident/

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PM to visit Samoa and Tonga

Source: New Zealand Government

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will depart for Samoa and Tonga on Sunday, reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to two of the closest members of our Pacific family.

“Both countries are integral to who we are as a nation. With more than 300,000 Samoan and Tongan New Zealanders, the family connection is woven into the fabric of our society,” Mr Luxon says.

The visit marks New Zealand’s first comprehensive engagement with the new governments in both countries, with the Prime Minister looking forward to his meetings with the new leaders and their Cabinets in each capital.

“Through our longstanding ties, we have built enormous trust between our nations. I’m looking forward to hearing my new colleagues’ points of view, and then agreeing how we can work together to build communities that are more prosperous and safer from threats like drugs.”

The visit also represents an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy of the connections between our countries, whether that’s sport, music or business. The Prime Minister will be joined by senior business leaders and community members, led by Savae Sir Michael Jones and Rachel Afeaki.

The Prime Minister will also be joined by Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti, Police Minister Mark Mitchell (in Samoa), Tim van de Molen MP, Jenny Salesa MP and Teanau Tuiono MP.  

The delegation departs Auckland on Sunday 15 March and returns on Wednesday 18 March.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/pm-to-visit-samoa-and-tonga/

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Police presence in Rotorua and Ōpōtiki for gang tangi

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Inspector Nicky Cooney, Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander:

Police will have a visible presence across Rotorua tomorrow and Saturday as a gang tangi travels from Rotorua to Ōpōtiki.

A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in town for the tangi from many parts of the country.

Police will have additional resources available to provide support to staff and to provide a respectful and safe space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully.

Police have conveyed our lawful expectations to local gang leaders, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which Police will act upon.

Our focus is on the safety of everyone. We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.

Police will have additional patrols in place Friday and Saturday, and will follow up on reports of illegal activity.

We urge anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately. Other reports can be made via 105.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/police-presence-in-rotorua-and-opotiki-for-gang-tangi/

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Police acknowledge IPCA report into justified use of force, Tairāwhiti

Source: New Zealand Police

Police acknowledge and accept an Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) report that found officers were justified in using force when taking a man into custody in Tairāwhiti.

On 14 December 2024, Police received reports of a man (referred to in the IPCA report as Mr Z) in a stolen ute in Tiniroto. He was believed to be in possession of a firearm.

Police saw the vehicle earlier in the day and the vehicle was signalled to stop, however, Mr Z fled driving in a dangerous manner and a pursuit was abandoned.

Mr Z was later located in the ute parked on the side of the road in Tiniroto.

While being told he was under arrest, Mr Z resisted and was seen to reach over the centre console and into the passenger footwell while kicking out towards the officers.

Officers believed Mr Z was reaching for a firearm, resulting in officers to act and use tasers, the deployment of a Police dog, and strikes and punches to apprehend Mr Z.

After a search of the vehicle, no firearm was located.

An IPCA investigation found the officers were justified in the use of force to take Mr Z into custody, and that overall Police’s actions were considered reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances.

Eastern District Commander Superintendent Joel Lamb acknowledges the report’s findings released today.

“I am proud of our Police Officers for their actions that day, they believed the man posed an imminent threat to them, their fellow officers, and members of the public.

“They took the appropriate steps to control the rapidly evolving situation and made split-second decisions that ensured the safety of everyone within the community.”

Mr Z made a full recovery from the injuries sustained during his arrest.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/police-acknowledge-ipca-report-into-justified-use-of-force-tairawhiti/

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Arrests after attempted robbery

Source: New Zealand Police

A group fleeing the scene of an attempted robbery at a central Auckland superette have also failed to give Police the slip.

Just before 9pm, two males covering their faces with balaclavas entered the store on Karangahape Road.

“These offenders entered the store, verbally abusing the shopkeeper,” Auckland Central Area Commander, Inspector Grae Anderson says.

“One of these males has jumped onto the counter, resulting in both offenders being chased out of the store by the shopkeeper.”

Both males ran to a waiting stolen vehicle which fled from the area.

Police units were dispatched to the incident.

“This vehicle was later detected in the Western Springs area, with a Police camera operator tracking its movements until the Police Eagle helicopter got overhead,” Inspector Anderson says.

The vehicle was seen stopping near St Lukes, with two males exiting before it drove off again.

“The two 17-year-olds were soon located by Police units and arrested, one of which was carrying a machete,” Inspector Anderson says.

Meanwhile, Eagle continued to track the stolen vehicle heading west on the northwestern motorway (SH16).

Inspector Anderson says the vehicle was stopped by Police on Te Atatū Road a short time later and two males, aged 12 and 13, were taken into custody without further incident.

Following further enquiries by Police, the two males have been referred to Youth Aid.

The two 17-year-olds arrested in St Lukes have been jointly charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

One of the pair has been charged with possessing an offensive weapon. They will appear in the Auckland Youth Court today.

“I would like to acknowledge all the Police staff involved in responding to last night’s incident, resulting in these apprehensions,” Inspector Anderson says.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/arrests-after-attempted-robbery/