Latest Post

  • adminadmin
  • January 7, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Name release: Sudden death, Waiotapu


Location:

Bay of Plenty

Police are releasing the name of a person that died near the Lady Knox Geyser in Waiotapu on 21 December 2025.

The woman was Briar Stockley, 42, of Rotorua.

Police extend our condolences to Briar’s loved ones over their loss.

Briar’s death was referred to the Coroner and has been determined to not be suspicious.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

  • adminadmin
  • January 7, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Further appeal: Unexplained Devonport death


Location:

Waitematā

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe:

Police are continuing to investigate an unexplained death that occurred in Devonport on New Years Day. The cause of the death remains unexplained, and the Police investigation is ongoing.

Enquiries to date indicate that earlier in the day a group of people may have visited the address at 9 Kerr Street, Devonport, and used the pool, including one adult and at least two children.

  • adminadmin
  • January 7, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Police urge drivers to slow down


Location:

Central

Over the past 48 hours police have seen worrying speeds on Manawatū roads.

Despite a heavy road policing presence on our roads, Sergeant Ryan Harrison says some people travel at excessive speeds and it’s got to stop.

“There have been a number of serious tragic crashes in the district.

“We want people to be able to visit family and friends safely yet we’ve found way too many drivers speeding over the Christmas New Year period.

“It’s frustrating,” says Sergeant Harrison.

“We stop people for speeding and drivers are cross about being caught.


Images(s):

Simply slow down

  • adminadmin
  • January 7, 2026
  • 0 Comments
SteamOS 3.7.19

SteamOS 3.7.19 has just been released for all users with the following changes previously in Beta:

General

  • Fixed a regression with Game Recording where the video feed would stop partway through the clip.

  • Fixed the performance overlay sometimes showing zero for CPU power draw

  • Fixed audio not always switching to/from 3.5mm headphones correctly when inserted or removed

  • Fixed a regression where certain in-game overlay UI elements could cause a frame time drop upon appearing

  • Fixed the frame limiter interacting badly with VRR after an extended period

  • Fixed an issue where Forza Horizon 4 and Forza Horizon 5 would only display a blank window

  • adminadmin
  • January 6, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Update 2: Search for missing tramper Connor Purvis


Location:

Southern

Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Blair Dalton:

Today the search for missing tramper Connor Purvis continued.

Around 50 people focused on the upper South Temple Valley, Mt Huxley and the Huxley River South Branch, both on foot and via helicopter.

We remain closely connected with Connor’s family and we continue to feel for them, and support them, as our search efforts continue.

Tomorrow we will be using the Recco device, with the Mount Cook Alpine Cliff Rescue team, to assist with the search.


Images(s):

The search involves rugged terrain
The search involves rugged terrain
The search involves rugged terrain
The search involves rugged terrain
The search involves rugged terrain

  • adminadmin
  • January 6, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Search continues for missing tramper, Kahurangi National Park


Location:

Tasman

Attribute to Sergeant Jonny Evans, Police Search and Rescue.

The search is continuing for a tramper overdue in the Baton area of Kahurangi National Park.

Graham Garnett, 66, went tramping in the Baton/Ellis River area. He was expected to return on 30 December, but did not.

Today five helicopters were used in the search, including a Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90. Two specialist canyon teams searched the steep terrain with specialised equipment and a field team also scoured the search area.


Images(s):

Graham, missing in Kahurangi National Park

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Update: Woman dies following crash on 2 January


Location:

Central

A woman critically injured in a crash on State Highway 3 south of Turakina on 2 January has died.

The injured woman had been transported to Wellington Hospital after the crash and passed away in hospital on 5 January.

Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this difficult time.

Two other people critically injured in the crash remain in hospital in critical condition.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Warrant to arrest: William Nelson-Bell


Location:

Counties Manukau

Police are working to locate William Nelson-Bell, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Nelson-Bell, 23, is wanted by Police in relation to assault and theft offences and is known to frequent the Counties Manukau area.

It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.

If you have seen him or have any information that may assist in locating him, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number 251005/1597.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.


Images(s):

Have you seen William Nelson-Bell?

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Update: Search for missing tramper Connor Purvis


Location:

Southern

To be attributed to Senior Sergeant Blair Dalton:

A significant search effort is continuing for missing tramper Connor Purvis.

Yesterday’s searches were focused in the upper South Temple Valley, Mt Huxley and the Huxley River South Branch, both on foot and via helicopter.

A continued effort again today will focus on Mt Huxley, the Huxley River South Branch and upper Ahuriri River.

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Search for missing tramper, Kahurangi National Park


Location:

Tasman

Attribute to Sergeant Jonny Evans, Police Search and Rescue.

A search is continuing for a tramper overdue in the Baton area of Kahurangi National Park.

Graham Garnett, 66, went tramping in the Baton/Ellis River area. He was expected to return on 30 December, but did not.

We will be using a radar tomorrow so ask members of the public to steer clear of our search areas.

Tomorrow the following areas in the Baton Valley will be closed while Police Search and Rescue teams search for Graham.


Images(s):

Graham, missing in Kahurangi National Park

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Rescue highlights need to be prepared


Location:

Southern

Attributable to Sergeant Dougall Henderson – Invercargill Police Search and Rescue Coordinator

The rescue of two boaties in a remote area of Fiordland over the weekend has highlighted the importance of being prepared when heading out on the water.

The two men were on a fishing and diving trip just south of Milford Sound when the batteries in their 6.4 metre recreational boat failed on Saturday night and left them stranded.

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Police seek assistance to identify males following mass disorder


Location:

Auckland City

Police investigating a mass disorder that occurred on Karangahape Road in Auckland are appealing for the public’s assistance in identifying the people pictured in these CCTV images.

At about 3.40am on Sunday 28 December emergency services were called to the disorder involving about 50 people.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greaves, Auckland City CIB, says the Police investigation remains ongoing into three serious assaults on and around Karangahape Road during the incident.


Images(s):

Do you know these males?
Police would like help to identify this person.
Do you recognise this male?

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Warrant to arrest: Bruce Tautari


Location:

Northland

Police are working to locate Bruce Tautari, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Tautari, 21, is wanted for failing to appear in court and is known to frequent the wider Northland and Tāmaki Makaurau regions.

It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.

If you have seen him or have any information that may assist in locating him, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number 251203/7734.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.


Images(s):

Bruce Tautari has a warrant to arrest.

  • adminadmin
  • January 5, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Fatal crash: Wanaka


Location:

Southern

One person has died following a crash on Roche Street, Wanaka this morning.

The crash was reported at around 10:45am.

One person has died at the scene.

An area of Roche Street remains closed while a scene examination is completed.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

  • adminadmin
  • January 4, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Police seek witnesses to serious crash


Location:

Central

Police are seeking any witnesses to a serious crash involving a cyclist and vehicle in Palmerston North on Friday.

The crash happened on Tennant Drive, outside Massey University, about 4.30pm on 2 January.

The cyclist received critical injuries and remains in intensive care in Wellington.

Acting Detective Sergeant Grant Christian said both the cyclist and the vehicle were heading towards the Fitzherbert Bridge when the crash occurred.

  • adminadmin
  • January 3, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Appeal for information, Champagne Gully campsite


Location:

Southern

Please attribute to Sergeant Regan Price, Cromwell Police.

Police investigating an assault are seeking information from the public.

A fight occurred at the Champagne Gully camping area about 10pm on Friday 2 January.

One man, 33, has been charged with assaulting three people and is due to apear in Dunedin District Court tomorrow.

Police would like to speak with anyone who was at the campsite who has witnessed the incident, or who has information or footage.

Contact Police through 105 either online or over the phone using reference number 260103/2900.

  • adminadmin
  • January 3, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Appeal for sightings of vehicle, Maniototo


Location:

Southern

Please attribute to Sergeant Regan Price, Cromwell Police.

Central Otago Police investigating a burglary in Alexandra yesterday are seeking the public’s help to locate a related vehicle.

After the burglary on Saturday 3 January, a first stolen vehicle was dumped near Ōmakau.

A second vehicle, a white Holden Colorado ute, was stolen from Ōmakau about 1pm – and it is this vehicle Police are seeking.

A trailer, and the ute owner’s dogs, were with the ute at the time it was stolen.

The trailer has been found, but the ute and dogs have not yet been located.


Images(s):

White Holden Colorado ute

  • adminadmin
  • January 3, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Rāhui, Mahuta Gap


Location:

Northland

Two people have died following a water related incident on Ripirō Beach between Mahuta Gap and Glinks Gully yesterday.

Police were called about 6.50pm with a report that two men could be seen struggling in the water.

Police and other emergency services responded immediately, and the men were pulled from the water unresponsive.

First responders provided first aid but sadly both men died at the scene.

Our thoughts are with their family and friends during this difficult time.

The deaths have been referred to the Coroner.


Images(s):

Rāhui from the Glinks Gully entrance to Mahuta Gap

  • adminadmin
  • January 2, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Appeal to public following Devonport death


Location:

Waitematā

Police investigating an unexplained death in Devonport are seeking help from the public.

Emergency services were called to the Kerr Street address around 11pm on 1 January to discover a person deceased at the scene.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting says a scene examination at the property is ongoing, and people can expect to see a Police presence in Kerr Street throughout the weekend.

A post-mortem is being conducted today.

  • adminadmin
  • January 2, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Four face court after aggravated burglary in Thames


Location:

Waikato

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Neilson

Four people will appear in the Hamilton Youth Court tomorrow on a number of charges following an aggravated robbery in Thames today.

Two men, aged 20, 18, and two 14-year-old boys are charged with aggravated robbery, unlawfully using a vehicle and failing to stop for Police.

About 8am today, Police received a report of an aggravated robbery at a business on Pollen Street, Thames.

  • adminadmin
  • January 2, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Quick actions save teenager caught in rip – Paritutu Beach


Location:

Central

A teenager, who was stuck in a rip, was safely brought back to shore after a Police Officer and a member of Surf Lifesaving entered the water after them.

Around 7pm Thursday 1 January, Police received a call reporting that a teenager was caught in a rip at Paritutu Beach (also known as Back Beach) and was unable to get themselves back to shore.

Police responded immediately, and a water rescue operation was launched including tasking a rescue helicopter.

During this time, the teen was floating further and further away from shore.

  • adminadmin
  • January 1, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Police disrupt youth gatherings in Coromandel


Location:

Waikato

Last night, Police disrupted a crowd of approximately 1000 youth who congregated at Williamson Park, Whangamatā, and 300 youth near the Surf Club Resort, Pauanui.

Around 10.30pm bottles were thrown towards Police, who were completing foot patrols within the park, with one officer being hit – fortunately, they were not injured.

Fireworks were also let off within the crowd.

Police directed the crowd to leave the park, using a loud hailer microphone, several times – each time they were ignored, and officers were forced to move the crowd on.

  • adminadmin
  • January 1, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Police investigating serious crash near Levin last night


Location:

Central

To be attributed to Inspector Ashley Gurney – Acting Area Commander – Manawatū:

A police investigation has been launched into a serious crash near Levin last night that left three people injured, one of them critically.

One of the vehicles, a Holden Captiva, had been sought by Police in relation to a number of driving complaints prior to the crash.

  • adminadmin
  • January 1, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Police investigate deaths of two people, Pukehina


Location:

Bay of Plenty

Attribute to Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Investigations Manager, Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Wilson: 

Police are investigating the deaths of two people at an address on Old Coach Road in Pukehina.

Around 3pm yesterday [Thursday 1 January], Police were notified of a woman that had sadly died at an address on Old Coach Road, Pukehina.

Police have arrested and charged a man in relation to the woman’s death.

  • adminadmin
  • January 1, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Tairāwhiti Police reflect on busy New Year period


Location:

Eastern

Attributable to Inspector Danny Kirk, Tairāwhiti Area Commander:

It’s been a particularly busy time for Tairāwhiti Police over the last few days.

With the annual Rhythm and Vines Music Festival attracting thousands, reports of anti-social road user events planned in the area and New Year celebrations across the region, mixed in with heavy rain.

Festival goers braved the wet weather and overall, their behaviour was good. There were four arrests for supplying drugs and breaches of bail, possession of an offensive weapon and behaving threateningly.


Images(s):

Danny Richard and Jeanette
A wet r&V
Checkpoint in Gisborne
Gisborne Checkpoint

  • adminadmin
  • January 1, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Update: Appeal for information following cries for help at Whare Flat


Location:

Southern

A search and rescue operation has concluded at Whare Flat, Dunedin, following a report of a person calling for help.

About 9.30am today, Police received a call from someone walking the Mackie Dackie track, who could hear a person yelling for help but could not locate where the voice was coming from. A Search and Rescue operation was launched, however searchers have been stood down, after finding no sign of a person or people in distress.

  • adminadmin
  • January 1, 2026
  • 0 Comments
Appeal for information following cries for help heard, Whare Flat, Dunedin


Location:

Southern

Police are appealing to the public for any information after receiving reports that someone was heard yelling for help near the Mackie Dackie track, off Flagstaff-Whare Flat Road, Whare Flat, Dunedin, this morning.

Around 9.30am today, Police received a call with a report from someone who was walking the Mackie Dackie track and could hear a person yelling for help but could not locate where the voice was coming from.

Police have conducted initial enquiries and have walked the Mackie Dackie track but have been unable to hear or see anyone.

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Appeal for information: Kaipara Coast Highway incident, Makarau, Auckland


Location:

Waitematā

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting, Waitematā CIB:

Police investigating the incident on Kaipara Coast Highway, Makarau, Auckland, where a person was found deceased on the road, are appealing to the public for information.

Around 5.20am today [Thursday 1 January], Police were called with a report that someone was deceased on Kaipara Coast Highway, between Tuhirangi Road and Makarau Road.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing, however Police believe it is likely that the person was struck by a vehicle.

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Update: Kaipara Coast Highway incident, Makarau, Auckland


Location:

Waitematā

One person has been located deceased on Kaipara Coast Highway, Makarau, Auckland, this morning.

Police were called to an incident around 5.20am where a person was found deceased on the road.

The death is being treated as unexplained and enquiries into the circumstances are underway.

A scene examination is taking place, and the road remains closed with cordons in place at the West Coast Road intersection and the Makarau Road intersection.

The public is advised to avoid the area, and motorists should take alternative routes.

ENDS

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Dashcam footage sought for crash Auckland Southern Motorway, Randwick Park


Location:

Auckland City

Police investigating today’s crash in the southbound lane of Auckland’s Southern Motorway at Randwick Park, between Hill Road and Takanini, are seeking help from the public to further understand the circumstances of the crash.

The crash involved a car and a motorbike around 12.30pm today. One person was seriously injured.

The motorway was closed while the scene was examined and has now reopened.

Police are strongly interested in dashcam footage of the vehicles immediately prior to the crash, from people driving along the motorway around the same time.

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Client Beta – December 30th

The Steam Client Beta has been updated with the following changes:

General

  • Fixed missing registry key error when running Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead.

  • Fixed Steam client crash when Astrill VPN is installed.

Windows 64-bit

  • Fixed error when connecting in multiplayer to Source SDK games.

Steam Input

  • Nintendo Switch 2 wired controller support has been re-enabled

  • GameCube adapters in Wii-U mode are not enabled by default, since opening them is exclusive with other applications. You can launch Steam with [c]-enable-libusb-gamecube[/c] if you’d like to enable them.

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Deck Beta Client Update: December 30th

We have just shipped an updated Steam Deck Client to the Preview/Beta channel.

General

  • Fixed missing registry key error when running Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead.

Steam Input

  • Nintendo Switch 2 wired controller support has been re-enabled.

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Name release: Fatal crash, Napier


Location:

Eastern

Police can now name the man who died in hospital after being struck by a car on McGrath Street, Napier, on 26 December.

He was Carl Louis Duncan. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing and Police are still wanting to speak with any witnesses, or people who provided assistance to Mr Duncan before emergency services arrived.

If you can help, please contact Police via 105 and quote file number 251227/1644.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

  • adminadmin
  • December 31, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police locate firearm and drugs during routine traffic stop, Kawakawa, Far North


Location:

Northland

Police have arrested and charged a man after a routine traffic stop led to locating a firearm, ammunition, methamphetamine, another offensive weapon, and drug paraphernalia.

On Tuesday 30 December, around 10.10pm, Police clocked a vehicle exceeding the 50km/h speed limit on State Highway 11, Kawakawa.

The vehicle was subsequently stopped by officers, who found that the vehicle had been reported stolen the week prior.

Upon speaking with the driver, he advised Police of a firearm that was in the vehicle which resulted in officers conducting a warrantless search.

  • adminadmin
  • December 30, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Fatal crash: Tangoio


Location:

Eastern

Police can confirm one person has died following a crash in Tangoio earlier today.

The single vehicle crash on State Highway 2 was reported just after 11:40am.

The sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

State Highway 2 has since re-opened.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

  • adminadmin
  • December 30, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Man charged, vehicle impounded after antisocial road user activity


Location:

Eastern

Police have arrested and charged a 20-year-old man following an antisocial road user gathering in Gisborne overnight.

In the early hours of this morning, 30 December, Police were alerted to a group of around a dozen vehicles participating in antisocial road activity on the corner of Whatatutu and Matawai roads.

Constable Jak Rowe said Police received multiple reports from disgruntled members of the public, and upon arrival the group quickly dispersed.


Images(s):

Corner of Whatatutu and Matawai roads
Impounded vehicle

  • adminadmin
  • December 30, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Name release, New Plymouth house fire


Location:

Central

Police can now release the name of the person who died following a house fire in Trelawney Crescent, New Plymouth on 24 December.

He was 49-year-old Dion Thompson, of New Plymouth.

Our thoughts are with his family and those close to him at this difficult time.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the fire.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

  • adminadmin
  • December 30, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Local insight and fast action leads to recovery of stolen goods


Location:

Waikato

Quick thinking and local knowledge by Hamilton Police have helped recover more than $1700 worth of stolen groceries in the city this morning.

Members of the Hamilton Retail Crime Team were conducting enquiries at commerical premises when a call came in regarding a shoplifting incident at another commercial premises.

Staff were verbally abused when they tried to prevent a woman from stealing a large trolley of groceries.


Images(s):

More stolen goods
Stolen goods

  • adminadmin
  • December 30, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Four youths apprehended following burglary


Location:

Southern

Dunedin Police are thanking members of the public for their assistance leading to four youths being apprehended for a burglary in Dunedin Central today.

At around 12:50pm, Police were called after a Stuart Street resident heard a window smashing at an unoccupied property down the road.

Police in the area responded immediately, as four people ran from the address towards Cargill Street.

The four youths were located by Police within a matter of minutes, and taken home following some words of advice from Police.

The four have been referred to Youth Aid.

  • adminadmin
  • December 28, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Tairāwhiti motorists: plan ahead and be patient on busy roads


Location:

Eastern

Police are urging motorists to plan ahead and expect hold ups, with an influx of traffic to Tairāwhiti over the holiday break.

With Rhythm and Vines on, and people travelling to see their families, the roads will be busy, says Tairāwhiti Area Commander Inspector Danny Kirk.

“If you’re on the road, remember that you’re sharing it with people who might be new to the region. While you might know the terrain, our visitors might not.

  • adminadmin
  • December 26, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Three rescued fishermen ‘did everything right’


Location:

Counties Manukau

Police successfully coordinated a water rescue of three people in the Manukau Harbour last night after their boat started taking on water.

Three fishermen set off from the Mangere Bridge Boat ramp and were approximately two kilometres away from Puketutu Island when their boat sunk. They managed to call Police just after midnight but did not know exactly where they were.


Images(s):

Hovercraft rescuing fishermen from water
Hovercraft on the way to pick up fishermen

  • adminadmin
  • December 26, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Client Beta – December 26th

The Steam Client Beta has been updated with the following changes:

Steam Input

  • Add launch option to conditionally enable Nintendo Switch 2 and GameCube adapter support. To use, launch Steam with the -enablepro2 option.

  • adminadmin
  • December 26, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Body located – Port Waikato


Location:

Counties Manukau

Police Eagle has sadly located a body at Port Waikato, which is believed to be the man who went missing while jet skiing on Christmas Day.

Police will be referring the matter to the Coroner.

Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with the man’s family at this extremely difficult time.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

  • adminadmin
  • December 26, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police Commissioner goes back on the beat for Rhythm and Vines, New Year’s Eve


Location:

National News

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers will be on the beat in Nelson on New Year’s Eve working alongside frontline staff, as well as policing at Rhythm and Vines in Gisborne in late December.

Commissioner Chambers says: “Being in Nelson this New Year’s Eve is the right place for me to be. It will be a year since our much-loved colleague Lyn Fleming was killed and I wanted to be there to back up the staff who’d worked alongside her, and to remember her.

  • adminadmin
  • December 26, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Sudden death, Piha


Location:

Waitematā

Police received report of a person washed away by waves on Piha Beach around 12.30pm.

The Police Eagle was deployed to help locate the person, sadly they were located and confirmed deceased around 1.20pm.

Their death will be referred to the Coroner.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

  • adminadmin
  • December 25, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Man charged after Hornby incident


Location:

Canterbury

Attributable to Detective Sergeant Luke Vaughan:

A man was due to appear in court today following an incident in Hornby yesterday evening.

Police received multiple calls shortly after 6:30pm reporting a male being chased by others on Amyes Road, one with a firearm in their possession.

Several vehicles in the area then fled the scene.

Police went to the hospital, where one person was found to have a suspected gunshot wound which is not considered life threatening. Officers also spoke to several other people at the hospital.

  • adminadmin
  • December 25, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Update: Man speaking to Police in relation to Ruatiti homicide


Location:

Central

Please attribute to Central District Commander Superintendent Dion Bennett:

The 29-year-old man Police required to speak to about a double homicide in Ruatiti on Saturday 13 December has handed himself into Police custody.

Police launched a homicide investigation following the deaths of 56-year-old Brendon Leigh Cole and 54-year-old Trina Michelle Cole at a rural property in Ruatiti.

The man was identified as someone Police needed to speak to in relation to the investigation.

  • adminadmin
  • December 25, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Deck Beta Client Update: December 24th

We have just shipped an updated Steam Deck Client to the Preview/Beta channel.

General

  • Fixed apps not showing in Add Non-Steam Game dialog after browsing for them.

  • Fixed Windows games intermittently not showing as installable on when a valid Proton mapping is selected.

  • Fixed certain games using Steam DRM exiting unexpectedly, including Mafia II and Football Manager 2012.

Steam Input

  • Temporarily disabled support of Nintendo Switch 2 and GameCube adapters in native mode to address reports of crashing with other controllers.

  • Fixed controller configurations showing up blank when the “Enabled Guide Button Chords” option is disabled.

  • adminadmin
  • December 25, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Client Beta – December 24th

The Steam Client Beta has been updated with the following changes:

General

  • Fixed certain games using Steam DRM exiting unexpectedly, including Mafia II (Classic) and Football Manager 2012.

Linux

  • Fixed apps not showing in Add Non-Steam Game dialog after browsing for them.

  • Fixed Windows games intermittently not showing as installable on when a valid Proton mapping is selected.

Steam Input

  • Temporarily disabled support of Nintendo Switch 2 and GameCube adapters in native mode to address reports of crashing with other controllers.

  • Fixed controller configurations showing up blank when the “Enabled Guide Button Chords” option is disabled.

  • adminadmin
  • December 24, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Trio arrested after aggravated robbery


Location:

Waikato

Police have arrested three youths following a swift response to reports of an aggravated robbery in Hamilton this morning.

About 6:40am, Police were alerted to the aggravated robbery on Mill Street, involving a stolen vehicle.

Thankfully, nobody was injured, however the offenders made off with two cash tills, among other items, says Hamilton City Area Commander Inspector Neil Faulkner.

“Police acted on previous information that a number of stolen vehicles had been dumped on Horne Street, and began making enquiries in the area.

  • adminadmin
  • December 24, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Hamilton homicide: Man charged with murder


Location:

Waikato

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Daryl Smith, District Manager Criminal Investigations:

Police have arrested and charged a man with murder in relation to the death of Jason Poa, also known as Jason Tipene, in Hamilton last week.

Mr Poa died at a Lake Crescent address last Thursday, 18 December.

Today, Police arrested a 21-year-old man at an address in Chartwell. He is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court on Friday 26 December on a murder charge.

Police are not seeking anybody else in relation to the death.

ENDS

  • adminadmin
  • December 24, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police reasonably pleased with Hastings drink driving operation results


Location:

Eastern

Hawke’s Bay Police are reasonably pleased with the results of an operation targeting drink driving on Friday 19 December – but four impaired drivers let the side down.

With the holiday season in full swing, Police set up a checkpoint at the roundabout of Pakowhai Road and Te Aea Kahikatea in Hastings.

Across the afternoon operation, Police stopped over 1100 vehicles, with four people blowing over the legal alcohol limit.

In addition to this, a number of infringement notices were issued for licence breaches and failing to wear a seatbelt.


Images(s):

Hastings drink driving operation
Hastings drink driving operation

  • adminadmin
  • December 24, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police scour suburb for answers after victim left ‘fearful’


Location:

Waitematā

A Police investigation has identified an offender allegedly behind two targeted wilful damage incidents in an Auckland suburb.

The development comes after Waitematā West Police scoured across Whenuapai to get answers.

A local man has been gifted a court appearance after a search warrant was executed on Christmas Eve at his home.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting, Waitematā West Area Investigations Manager, says two incidents occurred under the cover of darkness on 9 and 11 December 2025.

  • adminadmin
  • December 24, 2025
  • 0 Comments
An unwelcome Christmas gift for anti-social road users


Location:

Wellington

Wellington Police have disrupted multiple planned anti-social road user gatherings overnight.

Hutt Valley Area Commander Inspector Wade Jennings says checkpoints and a visible Police presence at key locations stopped the convoy of vehicles from setting themselves up.

Operation Kereru focused on 200 vehicles coming from areas such as Whanganui, Levin, and Palmerston North, with the intent of descending on the Wellington area to carry out dangerous driving activities.

  • adminadmin
  • December 24, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Person found deceased after fire, New Plymouth


Location:

Central

One person has been located deceased following a house fire in New Plymouth overnight.

Emergency services were called to a property on Trelawney Crescent around 2:30am today to reports of a house fire.

Sadly, one person was located deceased.

A scene examination is ongoing at the property, and Police will work alongside Fire and Emergency NZ to determine the circumstances of the fire.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

  • adminadmin
  • December 23, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Adventure ends in rescue and with a warning to pack PLBs


Location:

Wellington

A sliver of cell phone reception led to the rescue of three young men, after they endured a cold and wet night stranded in a gorge.

Wellington District Search and Rescue coordinator Sergeant Jonathan Westrupp says the trio intended to float down the Hutt River in the Kaitoke Regional Park, but their planning was flawed.

“They set off late in the day on Monday to traverse the river on inner tubes but were wearing only light clothing and soon found themselves in a dangerous situation with darkness descending and impassible cliffs on both sides of the river.


Images(s):

Rescuers prepare to take the trio out of the gorge. Photo: NZ Police

  • adminadmin
  • December 23, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Gisborne homicide: Arrests made and firearms seized


Location:

Eastern

Attribute to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant John Love: 

Police have arrested four people of interest following the investigation into the murder of Bill Maangi in Gisborne.

Mr Maangi died in hospital, after being shot in the early hours of Monday 29 September at an address on Ormond Road.

Between Wednesday 9 December and Thursday 11 December, Police executed search warrants at multiple addresses in the Gisborne area, in relation to the homicide investigation. This included a search of a section of the Taruheru River by the Police Dive Squad.

  • adminadmin
  • December 23, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Hamilton homicide: Name release and appeal for information


Location:

Waikato

Attribute to Detective Inspector Daryl Smith, District Manager Criminal Investigations: 

Police investigating a homicide in Lake Crescent in Hamilton on Thursday 18 December can now release the name of the person who died.

He was 55-year-old Jason Poa, also known as Jason Tipene.

Emergency services were called to a Lake Crescent address at about 6:15pm last Thursday, where two people had been injured.

One of the victims later died at the scene, and the other was taken to Waikato Hospital in serious condition.

  • adminadmin
  • December 23, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Duo pedal into Court following bike theft


Location:

Waitematā

Two people who allegedly stole an E-Bike from two teenagers in Belmont last weekend have been caught by Police.

At about 2.30pm on Saturday two teenagers riding their E-Bikes along Lake Road were confronted by two people who pulled up next to them in a vehicle.

Waitematā East Area Investigations Manager, Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams, says the male passenger has allegedly demanded the bike and presented a knife towards the victims.

“The man has then allegedly pushed one of the victims off the bike before assaulting him and riding off on the bike.

  • adminadmin
  • December 22, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Shoplifters’ supermarket shop doesn’t add up


Location:

Waitematā

The Henderson Beat Team had a list, they checked it twice, finding out two shoplifters were not nice.

The tale unfolded at a Henderson supermarket on Sunday afternoon.

Sergeant Rachael England says the team were patrolling when supermarket workers alerted them to offending taking place.

“Two women allegedly stole a large number of groceries from the store in their trolley,” she says.

“Our team arrested the pair a short distance from the store.”


Images(s):

Some of the groceries recovered by the Henderson Beat Team

  • adminadmin
  • December 22, 2025
  • 0 Comments
‘Things can change in a heartbeat’ – Police urges water safety


Location:

Bay of Plenty

A boatie was lucky to survive after being caught out on a fishing expedition on Lake Taupō – prompting a warning from Police and local iwi.

Police were alerted around 6:45pm yesterday, within minutes of Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) receiving initial reports of a boat fire on Lake Taupō, seen by residents of Kinloch. 

FENZ from Kinloch arrived to find fully-engulfed wreckage, and then discovered that the sole occupant of the boat was missing.

  • adminadmin
  • December 22, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Luxury theft leads to larger discovery


Location:

Waitematā

An investigation into a stolen Bentley has led North Shore Police to recover almost half a dozen stolen vehicles and a shotgun.

Waitematā East’s Tactical Crime Unit began investigating a burglary on the North Shore in the early hours of 1 December.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams says a luxury Bentley Bentayga SUV was stolen during a burglary.

“In the early hours, an unknown person entered a house taking the keys to the Bentley and driving away in the SUV,” he says.

  • adminadmin
  • December 22, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Public thanked for dobbing in drunk driver almost four times limit


Location:

Southern

Police have arrested one person while investigating a complaint from the member of the public that sighted a vehicle repeatedly crossing the centre line heading from Gore to Te Anau.

Around 7.30am on Sunday 21 December, Police signalled the vehicle in question to pull over on Main Street in Gore.

A strong smell of alcohol, bloodshot eyes and slurred speech greeted officers when they walked up to the driver.

  • adminadmin
  • December 22, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Water-related incident, Waikawau


Location:

Waikato

Emergency services are responding to a report of a person missing in the water near Waikawau boat ramp.

Police were called about 9.45am after someone was reported to be in difficulty in the water off the Thames Coast Road.

One person had made it safely to shore and raised the alarm that a second party was still in the water.

Police, including Police Eagle, Coastguard Howick and Auckland Coastguard Air Patrol, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand have responded.

The second person has not been located at this stage and the search is ongoing.

ENDS

  • adminadmin
  • December 21, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police impersonator arrested after almost pulling over unmarked cop car


Location:

Counties Manukau

Counties Manukau Police have arrested one person in a bizarre incident when carrying out patrols in an unmarked vehicle last night.

Inspector Kerry Watson said officers on duty noticed a station wagon following them equipped with a flashing bar of red and blue lights – a typical Police signal for the vehicle in front of them to pull over to the side of the road.

“Our officers were perplexed and quickly clocked the car was not Police-official.

  • adminadmin
  • December 21, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police arrest one, seek witnesses to Wellington city bar stabbing


Location:

Wellington

Attributable to Detective Sergeant Graeme Muir, Wellington Criminal Investigation Branch:

Police have arrested one person while investigating a recent stabbing at an Allen Street bar in Wellington.

A 34-year-old woman has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and will appear at the Wellington District Court on Monday 22 December.

What we know is around 1:30am on Saturday 13 December, Police were called to the Ace of Spades bar following reports a man had been stabbed.

  • adminadmin
  • December 20, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Tairāwhiti motorists urged to keep vehicles secure


Location:

Eastern

Police in Tairāwhiti are urging motorists to keep vehicle security top of mind, especially over the busy summer season.

“We’ve seen a rise in recent weeks in the number of thefts from vehicles, as well as reports of vehicles being stolen or interfered with,” says Acting Inspector Bryan Smith, Tairawhiti Area Prevention Manager.

“We want to remind people that some basic steps can help secure your vehicle and prevent it from being targeted by opportunistic criminals..

“Always lock your vehicle when you leave, it, and remove any valuables – especially anything visible.

  • adminadmin
  • December 20, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police investigating sudden death, Waiotapu


Location:

Bay of Plenty

Police are responding to a sudden death near Waiotapu Loop Road, Waiotapu.

Emergency services were alerted to an incident about 6.15am where one person had been pulled from the water unresponsive.

Enquiries are now underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the death, which is being treated as unexplained.

A scene examination will take place this morning. One person is currently assisting with enquiries.

Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

  • adminadmin
  • December 20, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Selwyn Police save Christmas for hundreds


Location:

Canterbury

Selwyn Police have prevented Christmas chaos, after a courier van, full of packages destined for underneath Christmas trees, was reported stolen on Friday 19 December.

Following this report, Police received numerous calls from the public about three suspicious men carrying courier packages in Birdlings Flat.

Acting Sergeant Daniel Ingram says Police responded immediately, and saw a vehicle leaving the area, which later attempted to hide from Police on a rural roadside.

  • adminadmin
  • December 20, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Ongoing search for Mitchell Cole, further appeal for information


Location:

Central

Attributable to Detective Inspector Gerard Bouterey, Field Crime Manager, Central District CIB:

Police are continuing to make enquiries to locate 29-year-old Mitchell Cole, who we want to speak with in relation to a double homicide in Ruatiti on Saturday 13 December.

As part of our enquiries, Police want to identify a man who was seen near the intersection of Pukekaha and Rautiti roads at around 6pm on Saturday 13 December.

  • adminadmin
  • December 20, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Human remains found – Coppermine Island (Mauipane)


Location:

Northland

Earlier today Police were alerted to human remains being located on Coppermine Island (Mauipane), east of Whangārei.

Police have since recovered the remains and commenced the formal identification process.

At this early stage, Police are unable to advise how long the remains may have been on the island.

The formal identification process is expected to take some time and no further information is available at this time.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Deck Client Update: December 19th

We have just shipped an updated Steam Deck Client to the Stable channel.

General

  • Selecting Sleep in the Power menu will now prompt the user to enter Display-off downloads when appropriate.

  • Fixed intermittent in-game purchase failures for some games.

  • Fixed news items not updating in the “What’s New” tab on the Home screen.

  • Fixed non-Steam browser windows erroneously being created sometimes when steamwebhelper is restarted.

  • On the Bluetooth settings screen, we will now detect and notify the player when trying to pair/connect an Xbox controller with older firmware versions that cannot properly connect to Steam Deck. To fix these issues you must connect the controller to a Windows PC and update the firmware via the Xbox Accessories App.

Accessibility

  • Moved the Screen Reader’s “Stop Talking” button to X so that external gamepads can still open the Quick Access Menu with Guide button + their equivalent of A button.

Friends & Chat

  • Suspicious or harassing group chat messages can be reported directly in the chat window by selecting the message and pressing ‘Options’. You can optionally block and/or unfriend the other user while submitting the report.

Remote Play

  • Fixed being unable to move the mouse to another monitor when using touch controls on the Steam Link app.

Steam Input

  • Promoted the newer gyro modes from beta to the default gyro modes loaded. Older configuration that are using the older modes will still see the option and you can also enable Steam Input dev mode under Settings->Developer to keep them visible all the time.

  • Adjusted Dualsense “Create” and “Options” glyphs for better recall.

  • In all Gyro Modes, when selecting multiple gyro activation buttons, you can also choose whether “Any” or “All” buttons are required to Enable/Suppress/Toggle the gyro.

  • Gyro Haptic On/Off effect is now separated from Gyro Haptic Rotation Effect.

  • Added an “Invert Input” toggle in “Regular Press” activator settings. When enabled, this causes button presses to generate releases, and vice versa.

  • Gyro to Joystick Deflection Mode: Added “Use Relative Roll” & “Use Relative Pitch” toggles. When enabled, this makes the output Joystick deflection relative to the controller’s pose since the Gyro’s activation. i.e. turning on the gyro will always center the stick output. When disabled, the deflection angle is absolute vs. the controller’s gravity sensor. Previously this was only possible for “Pitch” (old name: “World Auto Tilt”), but it’s now available for Roll as well.

  • Gyro to Joystick Deflection: “Relative Roll” and “Relative Pitch” toggles are only available if a Gyro Activation Button is selected, because the angles are relative to the pose of the controller each time the Gyro is activated.

  • Fixed Dualsense Edge, Xbox Elite, Nintendo JoyCons in paired mode not finding the correct config to edit.

  • Fixed Gyro to Joystick Deflection: Lock Extents not working as intended.

  • Fixed Gyro to Joystick Deflection: Some combinations of “Relative Roll” and “Relative Pitch” toggles resulted in zero joystick output.

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Steam Client Update – December 19th

A new Steam client has been released and will be automatically downloaded.

General

  • The Steam client is now 64-bit on Windows 11 and Windows 10 64-bit.

    • Systems running 32-bit versions of Windows will continue receiving updates to the 32-bit Steam client until January 1, 2026.

  • Fixed non-Steam browser windows erroneously being created sometimes when steamwebhelper is restarted.

Game Recording

  • Fixed errors copying to clipboard or exporting H265 videos on systems with a NVIDIA 50xx series gpu.

Friends & Chat

  • Suspicious or harassing group chat messages can now be reported directly in the chat window by right clicking the message. You can optionally block and/or unfriend the other user while submitting the report.

Big Picture Mode

  • Fixed intermittent in-game purchase failures for some games.

Remote Play

  • Fixed being unable to move the mouse to another monitor when using touch controls on the Steam Link app.

Steam Input

  • Added support for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers connected over USB on Windows

  • Added support for GameCube adapters in Wii-U mode with rumble on Windows

  • Added an “Invert Input” toggle in “Regular Press” activator settings. When enabled, this causes button presses to generate releases, and vice versa.

  • Promoted the newer gyro modes from beta to the default gyro modes loaded. Older configuration that are using the older modes will still see the option and you can also enable Steam Input dev mode under Settings->Developer to keep them visible all the time.

  • Adjusted Dualsense “Create” and “Options” glyphs for better recall.

  • In all Gyro Modes, when selecting multiple gyro activation buttons, you can also choose whether “Any” or “All” buttons are required to Enable/Suppress/Toggle the gyro.

  • Gyro Haptic On/Off effect is now separated from Gyro Haptic Rotation Effect.

  • Gyro to Joystick Deflection Mode: Added “Use Relative Roll” & “Use Relative Pitch” toggles. When enabled, this makes the output Joystick deflection relative to the controller’s pose since the Gyro’s activation. i.e. turning on the gyro will always center the stick output. When disabled, the deflection angle is absolute vs. the controller’s gravity sensor. Previously this was only possible for “Pitch” (old name: “World Auto Tilt”), but it’s now available for Roll as well.

  • Gyro to Joystick Deflection: “Relative Roll” and “Relative Pitch” toggles are only available if a Gyro Activation Button is selected, because the angles are relative to the pose of the controller each time the Gyro is activated.

  • Fixed a case where the desktop version of the configurator could unexpectedly close when trying to preview a configuration for another game on the Search tab

  • Fixed Dualsense Edge, Xbox Elite, Nintendo JoyCons in paired mode not finding the correct config to edit.

  • Fixed Gyro to Joystick Deflection: Lock Extents not working as intended.

  • Fixed Gyro to Joystick Deflection: Some combinations of “Relative Roll” and “Relative Pitch” toggles resulted in zero joystick output.

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Further appeal for information following Queens Park arson


Location:

Southern

Police are continuing to investigate following an arson in Queens Park, Windsor on Wednesday 3 December.

Police received a report at around 12:20am that four vehicles had been deliberately set alight.

As part of our investigations, we would like to hear from anyone who was on or around Queens Drive between 12am and 12:30am on Wednesday 3 December , or anyone with information that could assist.

Please contact Police via 105 either over the phone or online, referencing file number 251203/6133.

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Former travel agent sentenced over fraud that ‘knew no depths’


Location:

Auckland City

A former travel agent with no hesitations in ripping off her former employers and acquaintances will face 12 months home detention. 

The 29-year-old Waihi woman has been convicted on 16 fraud offences including making a false statement, after a lengthy investigation run by the Auckland City Financial Crime Unit.

Her victims were deceived out of more than $62,000.

This week in the Auckland District Court a reparation order was made for $15,102 to be paid within 14 days of sentencing and $40,904 to be paid at $200 week.

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Five arrested in Waikato drug bust


Location:

Waikato

Waikato East Police arrested and charged five people when executing search warrants in relation to suspected local drug suppliers.

Approximately 16 staff from Waikato East Criminal Investigation Branch, Prevention and Public Safety Team undertook warrants for drug offending in Matamata, Te Aroha and Whangamatā over three days last week.

In Matamata, two women from separate addresses were arrested and charged with supplying methamphetamine. They are due to in Hamilton District Court on 5 and 15 January.

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Drugged driver taken off the road after roadside test


Location:

Wellington

The new oral fluid screening testing has netted its first result after a man tested positive for methamphetamine at a checkpoint in Wellington.

People who have consumed impairing drugs should simply not be on our roads, says Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing.

“We make no apology for screening drivers to see if they’ve recently used drugs, and getting a drugged driver off our roads makes them safer.”

A 40-year-old man, who had his young daughter in the car, was asked to pull into a checkpoint on Hutt Road last night just before 9pm.

  • adminadmin
  • December 19, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Media advisory: Happy holidays from the Police Media Centre + operating hours


Location:

National News

On behalf of New Zealand Police, we wish all our media friends a safe and happy holiday season.

Like many of you, we’ll continue to be available throughout the holiday period.

The Media Centre will operate from 6am to 9pm weekdays, excluding Christmas Day, when the team will be available from 7am.

Our usual weekend hours of 7am to 9pm remain unchanged. 

As always, information on any significant events outside these hours will be issued proactively.

Please note that Police National Headquarters is closed for the holiday period from the end of today.

  • adminadmin
  • December 18, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Seventy-seven new cops on the beat


Location:

National News

Seventy-seven new hats flew into the air as wing 391, the final graduating police wing of 2025, celebrated the end of their initial training from the New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) this afternoon. 

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, members of the police executive and wing patron, Louisa Wall – Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Waikato, Ngāti Hineuru congratulated the 77 new graduating constables alongside their families and friends. 


Images(s):

On parade
The celebratory hat toss

  • adminadmin
  • December 18, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police release details on offender in Teishallia Te Paea homicide investigation


Location:

Eastern

Police investigating the murder of 37-year-old Teishallia Te Paea in Camberley in October are hoping an offender profile released today will help identify them.

Emergency services were called to an address in Kotuku Street, Camberley, on 29 October, after Teishallia’s body was located.

Sadly, her body had lain undiscovered for likely several weeks, as attempts had been made to conceal her.  

Detective Inspector Martin James says Police are determined to get answers for Teishallia’s family.

  • adminadmin
  • December 18, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police welcome new dog teams for Christmas


Location:

National News

After several weeks of training, two front line Patrol Dog teams and two Detector Dog teams celebrated today at a ceremony formally recognising their graduation to become working police dog teams.

“It’s a proud day for the graduates and the families of all four dog teams. The training has been busy and demanding for the handlers, but they’re all extremely competent, effective, and have demonstrated resolve,” says Inspector Todd Southall, National Coordinator of New Zealand Police Dogs.


Images(s):

Patrol dog Ridge on parade

  • adminadmin
  • December 18, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Fatal workplace incident, Te Kouma


Location:

Waikato

One person has died after an incident involving a commercial mower in Te Kouma, Coromandel today.

Emergency services were called to the scene on Te Kouma Road about midday.

Despite the best efforts of staff and members of the public at the scene, sadly the person died.

The death has been referred to WorkSafe and the Coroner.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

  • adminadmin
  • December 18, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Hutt Valley Police continue to investigate serious assault


Location:

Wellington

Hutt Valley Police are continuing to investigate a serious assault that left a person with critical injuries.

At around 5am on Wednesday 10 December, Police received reports of an assault at an address on Trinity Avenue, Epuni.

Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Cusin says Police continue to explore multiple avenues of enquiry and are asking the public for their help.

  • adminadmin
  • December 17, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Rotorua homicide – public asked to check properties


Location:

Bay of Plenty

Police investigating the homicide of a Rotorua man are urging residents near the scene to check their properties for discarded items.

Thirty-seven-year-old Nicholas Patrick Mitchell was found deceased in a vehicle on Ford Road shortly before 8:30pm on Friday.

Rotorua Area Investigations Manager Senior Sergeant Mark Van Kempen said Police were working “at pace” to find the offender, and asked residents on and near Ford Road to check their properties for possible evidence.

  • adminadmin
  • December 17, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Man arrested in central Auckland


Location:

Auckland City

Please attribute to Inspector Danny Meade:

Police have quickly arrested a man in central Auckland after being located carrying a samurai sword.

Just before 4pm, Police responded to information that a person was believed to be carrying a firearm on Upper Queen Street.

Armed units immediately responded to the area and made enquiries. Any presence of a firearm in the area was unable to be substantiated.

  • adminadmin
  • December 16, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Moped rider finds the red and blue lights


Location:

Auckland City

A moped rider may now have seen the light after failing to stop for Police in Auckland overnight.

Just after 12.30am, a unit spotted a moped travelling without a headlight on in the Mt Albert area.

Senior Sergeant Guy Baldwin, Auckland City West Area Response Manager, says the moped was signalled to stop.

“The moped was not only travelling without a headlight on but was also travelling at speed, which was very concerning for us,” he says.

“The rider failed to stop and was not pursued at the time.”

  • adminadmin
  • December 16, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Advisory to media: Interim suppressions for Mt Wellington homicide


Location:

Auckland City

Police are issuing an advisory to media around interim suppression orders in place concerning Operation Hawkin, the Mt Wellington homicide on 5 December 2025.

A Coroner’s non-publication order is due to expire tomorrow, 17 December 2025, at 5pm.

However, media should be aware that an interim suppression order is still in place in the District Court.

This interim suppression includes: the defendants’ names, the victim’s name, and any reference to specific gangs.

  • adminadmin
  • December 16, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Two arrested in relation to aggravated robbery, Hamilton


Location:

Waikato

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Reece Durston:

Two youths have been arrested in relation to an aggravated robbery in Hamilton.

On Sunday 14 December around 5.30pm, Police were called with a report of an aggravated robbery at a business address on Crawford Street.

It is reported that a group of six people, believed to be teenagers, entered the premises with at least one person allegedly armed with a knife.

It appears that the group made demands to the workers however were confronted by another staff member.

  • adminadmin
  • December 15, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Enquiries continuing to locate man in relation to Ruatiti homicide


Location:

Central

Attribute to Central District Commander Superintendent Dion Bennett:

Police investigating a double homicide in Rutatiti are continuing to make enquiries to locate Mitchell Cole, 29.

Cole is believed to be in the Ruatiti area and should not be approached if seen.

Police have concerns for Cole, and we also want to speak to him in relation to our ongoing enquiries.

If you see him, please call 111 immediately.

Additional Police staff remain in the Ruatiti area to assist the investigation.


Images(s):

Police seeking Mitchell Cole

  • adminadmin
  • December 15, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Appeal for information following burglaries, Christchurch


Location:

Canterbury

Police investigating a stolen trailer and motorcycles in the Christchurch area are seeking help from the public.

On Monday 15 December, Police received a report that the trailer [pictured] had been stolen sometime overnight on Sunday 14 December, from an address on Kairua Road in Hornby.

The trailer – registration U110C – was then used in a burglary of four motorcycles from an address on Almond Lane, Prebbleton on Monday 15 December.


Images(s):

trailer side 1
trailer back
trailer side 2
trailer being towed

  • adminadmin
  • December 15, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Police rolls-out roadside drug driver testing


Location:

National News

Drivers in Wellington experienced roadside drug driving tests for the first time this afternoon, signalling the start of the rollout with Police now able to detect and deter drug drivers on our roads.

For Police to now be in a position to screen drivers for the recent use of drugs is a milestone moment in our continuous efforts to keep everyone safe on the roads and reduce harm, says Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing.

“The introduction of roadside drug testing is a significant change that aims to address a serious issue occurring on New Zealand roads.

  • adminadmin
  • December 15, 2025
  • 0 Comments
Critical incident investigation underway, Waipā


Location:

Waikato

Attributable to Acting Waikato District Commander Will Loughrin:

Police have launched a critical incident investigation following a fatal crash in Waipā last night.

Shortly before the crash at around 8.40pm, Police saw a black BMW travelling in excess of the speed limit on Arapuni Road.

Police have turned around activating red and blue lights intending to stop the speeding vehicle.

It appears the offending vehicle has collided with a second vehicle.