Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Wescott:

A man has been arrested and charged following unexplained injuries to a baby in Hutt Valley.

Yesterday at around 8am Police were called to an address in Avalon after a report of a disorder.

Upon arrival, officers were made aware of a baby who had allegedly been intentionally injured.

They were transported to hospital by ambulance in a serious condition.

Police is seeking the whereabouts of Dean Shedden, who is wanted to arrest.

A warrant has now been issued for the 56-year-old’s arrest for beaching bail conditions, and not returning to custody.

The remand prisoner was on bail for compassionate grounds after being granted by a court.

On Friday 14 November, Shedden failed to return to custody at Mt Eden Corrections Facility by 5pm in accordance with those bail conditions.

Police have been making enquiries at known addresses through the week to locate Shedden.

It was smiles, not tears, at the departure gate as Police reunited a German tourist with his stolen belongings.

A car break-in earlier this week threatened a sour-end to the tourist’s trip down under.

On 19 November, he reported to the front counter at the Auckland Central Police Base on Federal Street.

“At some point during the previous night the tourist’s rental car parked on Crummer Road, Grey Lynn was broken into,” Inspector Grae Anderson, Auckland Central Area Commander says.

Suspicious behaviour and a van full of equipment led officers on an fruitful discovery in Manurewa earlier this week.

Just after midnight on Tuesday, Police were alerted to a vehicle travelling on Roscommon Road with stolen registration plates.

Counties Manukau Central Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Warrick Adkin, says the plates were originally from a Ford Transit but were observed on a Toyota Hiace.

“Eagle was quickly deployed and within 15 minutes the crew had located the vehicle on Wordsworth Road.”

To be attributed to Detective Mike Godwin, Hawke’s Bay CIB:

Two young people have been arrested following the aggravated robbery of a dairy on Bill Hercock Avenue in Pirimai, Napier at around 6pm on Wednesday.

One of the youths was located and arrested last night. The other was arrested during a search warrant this morning. 

They are scheduled to appear in Napier Youth Court today, charged with aggravated robbery and unlawful taking a motor vehicle.

Three people have been arrested and charged on a range of drug-related offences following a planned operation in Invercargill.

After an intensive investigation into the supply and sale of illicit drugs in the Invercargill area, Southland Police’s Organised Crime Group terminated Operation Mist on 6 and 7 September 2025, preventing “astronomical” harm across Southland.

Police are appealing to the public for information on the whereabouts of Kayci Tapine, 27, who has a warrant for her arrest.

Police believe someone may have information on her whereabouts.

Tapine is known to have connections in the Bay of Plenty, Counties Manukau, and Waikato regions.

Anyone with information is urged to call 111 immediately and quote file number 250208/8621.

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

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

To be attributed to Detective Inspector Jamie Woods, Field Crime Manager:

A homicide inquiry is ongoing after a man died in Waikanae yesterday afternoon.

Police were called to Kakariki Grove at around 3.15pm yesterday, where a man was located critically injured and subsequently passed away.

Three men – aged 20, 25 and 26 – have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm in relation to the incident that resulted in the man’s injuries. Further charges are currently being considered.

A 41-year-old man has been charged with nine offences after a spate of thefts and burglaries in Feilding.

The offending goes back to 18 September, when the man is alleged to have broken into a vehicle and stolen personal possessions on Willowbank Crescent.

What followed was multiple instances of dishonesty offences around Feilding, including burglaries from commercial and residential premises and the theft of a vehicle and bank cards.

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers, Counties Manukau CIB:

Two separate investigations are underway following several complaints received in relation to the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Election.

Police can confirm that at this stage we are investigating 16 complaints, forwarded to us from Election Services.

This investigation remains in the early stages, however they relate to allegations of electoral fraud.

Police can confirm one person has died following a crash in Sheffield this afternoon.

The two-vehicle crash on State Highway 73, at the intersection with Deans Road was reported at around 2:50pm.

A further two people sustained minor injuries in the crash.

The Serious Crash Unit are in attendance and the road is expected to remain closed for several hours.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area, detours are in place.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Kylee Cusin:

Police searching for 61-year-old Anita Hart, who was reported missing from the Upper Hutt area on 13 November, have sadly located her deceased.

Police, along with multiple Search and Rescue teams, have been extensively searching the area working to locate her, and while this is not the outcome we hoped for, we hope it will help provide some closure for her family and loved ones.

Police would like to thank the public and everyone who helped in the search.

The death has been referred to the Coroner.

Attribute to Western Waikato Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Mary van Dongen: 

Police arrested two people, impounded a dirtbike and located firearms during a search warrant yesterday at an address in Te Kauwhata, after the alleged driver fled from Police on Monday.

At around 7:40pm Monday 17 November, Police witnessed a man riding a dirtbike with no helmet on Main Road. Officers signalled the driver to stop, however they failed to do so – due to the nature of driving Police did not pursue, and instead noted down the details of the bike for follow up.

Media is invited to attend the Tasman Law Enforcement Torch Run event to take photos and interview participants, including some of the local Special Olympics stars.

What: Law Enforcement Torch Run in Nelson

Where: Meet outside the Nelson Police station at 9am. Departing at 9.15am, and finishing at the church steps at the top of Trafalgar Street.

When: Saturday 22 November 2025

Who: Tasman District Special Olympics athletes, coaches, families and police

Police are releasing the name of the man who died in a hit and run incident in Henderson at the weekend.

Dion Raymond Kainamu, 58, sadly died after being critically injured on Tango Place, Henderson, in the early hours of 16 November.

Police extend our sympathies to Mr Kainamu’s family for their loss at this very difficult time.

It’s alleged a vehicle struck Mr Kainamu and left the scene.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting, of Waitematā West CIB, says a woman was arrested at West Auckland address on Sunday afternoon.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested and remanded in custody on nine separate driving related charges.

The charges come in the wake of two bystanders being injured after a car lost control on State Highway 5, near Maraeroa Road, Mamaku on 11 November.

Reports made to Police at around 10:30pm that evening suggested a group of people were conducting burnouts and skids.

An hour later at 11:30pm a vehicle lost control and hit two bystanders, causing life changing injuries that will require months of recovery.

Police can now confirm the fatal incident in Sanson on Saturday is being treated as a homicide.

The post mortem examination of the adult male has been completed. The three children are expected to undergo a post mortem tomorrow.

Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham wants to reassure the community that Police are not seeking anybody else in relation to this investigation.

“A forensic examination of the scene is ongoing, and it will take some time to get the results once that examination has been completed.

It was a busy night for burglars in Manurewa overnight, with Police ruining the fun for a handful of alleged criminals.

Just after 11.30pm, a number of residents phoned Police to report a group of people attempting to enter properties on Avonglen Court, Wattle Farm Road and Glencalder Place.

Counties Manukau Central Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Warrick Adkin, says shortly after another member of the public called Police in relation to a vehicle that was in the process of being abandoned.

Six people have blown over the limit and two people are due to appear in court after a disappointing weekend on Marlborough roads.

“Police saw a number of concerning incidents over the region and it’s lucky nobody was killed or seriously injured,” says Sergeant Josh Clauson.

At around 7:10pm on Friday Police observed a motorbike travelling over twice the legal speed limit on State Highway 63, Wairau Valley.

The 24-year-old man had his driver’s licence suspended and his motorbike impounded.

Police have today recovered the body of the third young victim of a fatal incident in Sanson.

Late this morning, investigators, supported by a forensic pathologist, located the child and family were present as they were taken from the scene, Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham says.

The incident began about 2.30pm on Saturday, when emergency services were alerted to a house fire, on State Highway 1. Three children and a man died at the property, and the circumstances remain under investigation.

A man has died after getting into trouble in the water at Riversdale on Thursday afternoon, 13 November.

Police were called to Riversdale Beach at about 4pm when a man, in his 50s, was seen struggling in the water.

He was brought to shore where CPR was performed.

Despite best efforts by members of the public, the local surf club, and emergency services, sadly he was unable to be revived.

His death has been referred to the Coroner.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

NZ Police and Health New Zealand have commenced implementation of Phase Three of the Mental Health Response Change Programme, following the successful rollout of Phases One and Two.

The change programme aims to see an increased health-led response to mental health, enabling Police more time to do the work that only Police can and which the community expects them to do.  

Police can advise a person has died at Takapuna Beach this afternoon.

At midday, Police were advised a person was seen unresponsive in the water and had been pulled onto the beach.

Police staff on scene provided immediate medical assistance to the man.

Despite best efforts by Police and other emergency services in attendance, sadly we can confirm the man has since died.

His death will be referred to the Coroner.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Attribute to Detective Inspector Geoff McCarthy: 

One person is in custody and a homicide investigation has been launched following a serious incident in Kaitaia this afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the Okahu Road address about 12.35pm following a report of assault.

The victim was located at the address in critical condition, however despite emergency services best efforts, they sadly died at the scene.

Waikato Police are renewing appeals for information as concerns grow over the whereabouts of missing man Louis.

The 44-year-old has been missing since Thursday 13 November, and Police have been searching the area where he was last known to be.

Louis was last seen at around 10am, believed to be heading to the Tui Domain Track via the Hamilton Street entrance, at the base of Mount Te Aroha.

“Since then, there have been no sightings of Louis despite our efforts to locate him,” says Detective Inspector Matt Cranshaw.

Police are appealing for information from the public after a burglary in Napier South overnight.

At around 8.50am, Police were notified of the burglary at the Red Cross shop on Carlyle Street.

After initial enquiries it is believed the incident occurred between 5pm on Saturday and 8.30am on Sunday.

Police are now working to determine what has occurred and are urging anyone who may have information to contact us.

Police investigators are beginning a complex scene examination following several fatalities at the scene of a house fire in Sanson.

Emergency services were called to the property, southwest of the town on State Highway 1, about 2.30pm yesterday. Several people are believed to have died at the property and Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the fire.

A scene guard remained in place overnight and investigators returned to the scene this morning.

Search crews are resuming the search for a man believed missing in the sea off Northland.

The man was one of two people on a boat that was reported overdue on Friday night. The 17-foot runabout was meant to return at 7pm on Friday, and the alarm was raised at 9pm.

Yesterday morning, the boat was found drifting with no-one aboard, and shortly after a body of one of the two fishermen was found.

Police can confirm a body has been found during the search for an overdue boat in Northland, which went missing last night with two people onboard.

About 9pm, family members called emergency services to report the 17-foot vessel was two hours overdue. The single-engine runabout had been expected to return to Pataua South at 7pm following a fishing trip.

A search began immediately and ran through till 4am, supported by the Police Eagle helicopter.

One person has died following a single-vehicle crash on Tokerau Beach in the Far North last night.

Police were notified of the crash, where a 4WD has rolled, at around 7:30pm on Friday.

Sadly, one person was located deceased at the scene.

The two other occupants of the vehicle were airlifted to hospital, one in critical condition and the other in moderate condition.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Central North Island Police have issued 141 infringements after inspecting 910 vehicles in a targeted and pointed approach on heavy vehicles and trailers.

Operation Triangle was carried out from the 3 November to the 6 November 2025.

The objective is to improve the compliance of drivers and heavy vehicle standards to reduce the risk of crashes on our roads.

Police can now release the name of the man who died in a fatal cycling crash on Kokotau Road, Carterton, on Saturday 8 November.

He was Raymond Allan Putt, 70, of Masterton.

Police extend their sympathies to his loved ones.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

The first wing to graduate from the RNZPC’s Auckland campus has been congratulated on their achievement and will soon be boosting the frontline in Northland and across Tāmaki Makaurau.

The campus was opened earlier this year to cater for both senior police courses and recruit courses, and the 37 graduates of Wing 390 have successfully led the way for the next wing to start training at the campus in February 2026.

A woman stuck on the rocks at Castor Bay had a lucky scape thanks to a charged mobile phone and quick Police work.

Just after 1.30pm, Police received a call from a woman stating she was trapped on rocks between Castor Bay Beach and Kennedy Park.

Waitematā East Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant CJ Miles, says a unit arrived quickly, with one officer scaling rocks around the bay until locating the woman.

“She was getting battered by waves and an incoming tide.

Roadside screening for drug-impaired drivers has moved a step closer to becoming reality as Police confirm they have tested, and selected, a detection device.

Police will be rolling out roadside drug driving testing in the Wellington District from mid-December 2025.

Pathtech Pty Ltd, an Australian-based Drug Detection and Life Science provider, was the successful supplier of roadside oral fluid testing equipment, following an extensive global procurement process.

Please attribute to Inspector Martin James, Eastern District Manager – Criminal Investigations:

Police investigating the unexplained death of a Hastings woman last month are now treating her death as a homicide.

Emergency services were called to an address in Kotuku Street, Camberley, on 29 October, where a 37-year-old woman was found deceased.

An investigation immediately commenced to establish how she had died.

We continue to provide support to her family at this extremely difficult time. 

A 38-year-old man is before the courts after a thorough investigation into damage of tourists’ vehicles in the Canterbury District.

Police were notified on 22 October of a campervan that was broken into at Castle Hill. This led Police to make further enquiries into similar reports.

Senior Sergeant Rachel Walker, Canterbury Rural Prevention Manager, said that after a detailed investigation into these incidents, the Canterbury Rural Tactical Crime Unit, Field Intelligence, and other district staff identified the alleged offender believed to be responsible.

Please attribute the following to Detective Inspector Matt Cranshaw, Field Crime Manager:

Police have made 10 arrests and dismantled clan labs across the upper North Island following a series of coordinated search warrants targeting the sale and supply of methamphetamine.

Operation Leaf was terminated yesterday,  this investigation focussed on the supply of methamphetamine in Waikato.

One person has died following a crash on Culverden Road/SH7, Culverden, Hurunui, this afternoon.

The single-vehicle crash, where it appears a truck has struck a tree, was reported to Police around 12pm.

Sadly, the driver of the truck, who was the sole occupant, was located deceased at the scene.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit complete a scene examination.

Police are making enquiries into the circumstances of the crash.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Police are working to locate Paul Kyle Peekay Rehua, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Rehua, 42, is wanted in relation to escaping custody and is believed to be in the wider Waitematā area, though he known to frequent the greater Auckland and Waikato regions.

It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.

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

Please use the reference number 251107/5350.

A man has been kept out of the community, after being arrested following a series of violent assaults in Henderson on Tuesday night.

At around 5.24pm, frontline officers in Henderson responded to a series of calls from the public about assaults taking place on Railside Avenue.

“It was reported a man was walking through the area, allegedly assaulting multiple members of the public he came across,” Waitematā West Area Commander, Inspector Simon Walker says.

“Sadly, several people have sustained injuries as a result.”

Attributable to Sergeant Tracy Haggart, Queenstown Acting Response Manager,

A youth has been remanded in custody following a commercial burglary in Remarkables Park earlier this week.

At around 2.15am, Police were called to the intersection of Tex Smith Lane and Hawthorne Drive where a vehicle was used to unlawfully gain entry to a commercial premises.

The alleged offenders fled the area, where the vehicle was located abandoned and submerged in Lake Whakatipu.

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant David Thompson, Manawatu Area Investigations Manager,

An 18-year-old Palmerston North man has been arrested and charged following a building fire in Palmerston North.

On Thursday 30 November Police were called to a building on Fergusson Street, formally the Fitzherbert Bar, at around 5.20pm.

After initial enquiries the fire was deemed suspicious and a scene examination was completed.

Today, Police arrested and charged an 18-year-old man in relation to the fire.

One person has died following a serious crash in Whitianga this morning.

Emergency services were called to the two vehicle crash at the intersection of Tairua Whitianga Road and Moewai Road just after 10am.

Sadly, despite best efforts of emergency services, one person died at the scene.

One other person received minor injuries.

The road is closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducts a scene examination.

Motorist are advised to avoid the area or delay travel as there are no diversions in place.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Please attribute to Acting Detective Inspector James Keene:

Police investigating the murder of Bill Maangi in Gisborne are seeking the public’s help in identifying two people believed to be directly linked to the incident. 

Police reviewing CCTV from around the area at the time show two men wearing sweatshirts with their hoodies on. One was seen running from Forrester House over the Ormond Road bridge onto Riperata Street. Another was captured walking from Forrester House on Ormond Road towards town, across Mary Street and continued on Ormond Road.

The findings of the IPCA review into the Police handling of complaints against Jevon McSkimming show inexcusable conduct by former senior leaders of New Zealand Police.

Attributable to Detective Inspector Craig Farrant:

Police are following good lines of enquiry in relation to a shooting in Wainoni last night.

Officers remain at the scene on Shortland Street, and in the general area as our enquiries continue.

Initial enquiries suggest this was gang-related.

This is a concerning incident, and Police have an increased presence in and around Christchurch as officers carry out reassurance patrols.

The victim remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

A person has died after an incident involving an ATV at a property in Waitahora.

Emergency services were called to the Weber Road property shortly after 8.30am yesterday.

Sadly, the person died at the scene.

WorkSafe has been advised, and the death will be referred to the Coroner.

ENDS

Note for media:

The family of the victim ask for privacy at this time.

Police can now name the man who died in a fatal crash on State Highway 3 near Sanson on 18 September.

He was 34-year-old Brook Paul Morgan, from Marton.

Police offer our sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

Electric dirt bikes are creating serious concerns for Police, with the vehicles featuring in a growing number of crashes and cases of illegal riding.

In most instances, the bikes, which can exceed 80kmh, are required to be registered. That comes as a shock to many of the riders who Police speak to, says Senior Sergeant Wayne Hunter, the Area Road Policing Manager for Western Bay of Plenty.

Please attribute to Sergeant Steven Jones, Waikato Road Policing,

Police are appealing for information from the public following a fatal crash in the Waipa District on Saturday 18 October.

Emergency services were notified of the crash on Te Pahu Road just after 11am involving a motorcycle that appears to have left the road between Whatawhata and Te Pahu.

One person received serious injuries and was transported to hospital, however sadly died in hospital in the days following the crash.

Police are disappointed in the actions of a minority of league fans during the final weekend of the Pacific Rugby League Championship.

To ensure celebrations were safe and lawful, additonal Police staff were deployed to Ōtāhuhu, Māngere, Ōtara and Clendon as fans took to the streets.

Counties Manukau District Commander, Superintendent Shanan Gray, says fans turned out in their hundreds causing congestions on roads and surrounding areas.

“Police would like to thank the majority who celebrated peacefully and lawfully,” he says.

Attributable to Sergeant Tracy Haggart, Queenstown Acting Response Manager,

Queenstown Police are appealing for information from the public following a burglary in Remarkables Park.

At around 2.15am today, Police were alerted to a burglary at a commercial premises at the intersection of Tex Smith Lane and Hawthorne Drive.

A stolen vehicle has been used to unlawfully enter the premises, where two offenders have taken around $900 of alcohol.

One person has died following a crash involving two cyclists in Carterton yesterday.

Police and other emergency services responded to the crash on Kokotau Road at around 11.30am 8 November.

Sadly, one of the cyclists has died in hospital after being airlifted from the scene in critical condition.

The road was closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

A person has been found deceased following a fire in Hamilton East this morning.

Emergency services attended a Wellington Street address just after 6am, where a house was on fire.

Sadly, a person was located deceased at the property.

A scene guard remains in place, and Police will work alongside Fire and Emergency New Zealand to help determine the circumstances of the fire.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on the intersection of Waharoa Road East and Pohlen Road on 30 October.

The man was Michael Plowman, 51, of Matamata.

Our thoughts are with Michael’s friends and family at this difficult time.

Police continue to investigate the crash.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Hutt Valley Police successfully disrupted a planned anti-social road user gathering in Lower Hutt last night, issuing dozens of infringements, handing out pink and green stickers, and seizing a car and some fireworks.

The night started in Queensgate where around 200 cars had gathered for mental health initiative Gumboot Friday.

Police used this as an opportunity to engage positively with the group around the good cause.

The group then moved towards Paremata, where a checkpoint was set up nearby by Police.

Police hot on the heels of a group of alleged thieves caught up with them on the motorway this morning.

Just after 7am, Police received a report of a theft at a residential property in Mangawhai.

Waitematā North Area Commander, Inspector John Thornley, says the home owner contacted Police after disturbing the alleged thieves.

“The offenders were allegedly targeting tsunami alert speakers on the property, but were unsuccessful.

“Police were provided with descriptions of the alleged offenders, a vehicle registration and direction of travel.

Police have discovered a raft of weapons and drug paraphernalia following a search warrant at a Takapuna property yesterday.

Investigators looking into an incident involving threatening behaviour attended an address on Karaka Street yesterday to make an arrest.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams, Waitematā CIB, says upon arrival officers located a number of items of interest.

Please attribute to Inspector Danny Kirk, Area Commander for Tairawhiti:

Exceptional work by Police staff has led to two Mongrel Mob members being charged after an incident in Wairoa yesterday afternoon.

Around midday, two Detectives were conducting enquiries at an address on Black Street which was subject to arson attack last week. While on the street, they were alerted to a vehicle of interest.

That same vehicle, then cut in front of a separate patrol unit who was in the area and then failed to stop for Police when signalled to do so.

A rider who fled from Police and recklessly rode through reserves and walkways in South Auckland has come unstuck.

At about 9.15pm, Police observed a motorbike travelling along Great South Road, Takanini with a lapsed licence dating back to 2019.

Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says officers attempted to stop the motorbike to enquire into the registration.

“The rider has failed to stop and instead performed a U-turn on Manuroa Road and fled.

Please attribute to Inspector Herby Ngawhika, Rotorua Area Commander:

Police are disappointed that a small number of people needed to be arrested following a tangi in Rotorua today.

Police had an increased visible presence across Rotorua due to the gang tangi taking place, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the wider community.

Police have been working with whanau over the last few days to ensure a smooth and safe precession today, and a significant majority of attendees behaved in a manner that Police were pleased with.

A pair responsible for an alleged crime spree across the North Island will now face court.

Yesterday afternoon, Police were alerted to a vehicle of interest travelling through Auckland’s east and coming to a stop at Sylvia Park.

Auckland City West Area Investigations Manager, Detective Senior Sergeant Anthony Darvill, says with the assistance of the Police Eagle helicopter officers arrested two people suspected of committing multiple shoplifting offences across the North Island.

Police are working to locate Tuapola Jason Dean Toala, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Toala, 21, is wanted in relation to serious charges and is believed to be in the wider Auckland or Northland regions.

It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.

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

Please use the reference number 250911/1401.

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

ENDS.

Attributable to Detective Inspector Joel Syme:

Police acknowledge the verdicts handed down today in relation to the murder of Anaru Moana in December 2021.

Three men were found guilty of murder and one woman was found guilty of being a party to injuring.

Attributable to Police Commissioner Richard Chambers:

The conduct of Mr Jevon McSkimming was disgraceful and it is right he has been held to account for it.

The outcome shows all police, no matter their rank, are accountable to the laws that apply to us all.

Mr McSkimming’s behaviour was not only criminal, but goes against the core values of Police.

I will not allow this to tarnish my staff, who are as appalled by this as I am. This shameful episode has done their dedication an immense disservice.

Two men have had their nets, waders and other equipment seized after being caught illegally whitebaiting last night.

Police and the Department of Conservation have been running the joint Operation Īnaka, focusing on whitebaiters illegally fishing in Western Southland.

Last night, Western Southland Police ran the third enforcement night targeting anyone who was whitebaiting outside of the legal season.

Police can now release the name of a woman found deceased in a central Auckland apartment at the weekend.

A homicide investigation commenced after the woman was located around 7.35pm on Saturday, 1 November.

She was 38-year-old Luisa Qelesenikau Mate.

Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin says, “our thoughts are with Luisa’s family and her children, for the loss they have suffered, and our investigation team is continuing to support them through the process.”

A 38-year-old man has been charged with her murder.

Police will be part of something special, supporting Central District’s Special Olympics athletes to carry the Flame of Hope in support of the Special Olympic Games.

Media is invited to the Central leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, hosted by Central District Police.

What: Law Enforcement Torch Run – Central District

Where: Meet at E-Bikes carpark, Church Street, Palmerston North, then finish in The Square, Palmerston North

When: 10am on Saturday 8 November 2025

Hawke’s Bay Police are investigating a series of rural burglaries in the Twyford area and are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying a possible vehicle or person of interest.

Three incidents have occurred in close proximity over consecutive nights.

Police believe these incidents may be linked and are seeking any information that could help identify a vehicle of interest or suspicious activity in the area during these times.

Emergency services are attending a serious crash at the intersection of Elliot Street and Ray Small Drive, Papakura.

The two-vehicle crash was reported to Police 2.04pm.

At this stage one person has suffered serious injuries.

Elliot Street is closed between Green Street and Mossford Green and Ray Small Drive between Union Street and Elliot Street.

Police are advising motorists to use alternate routes as road closures may be in place for some time.

Police is condemning the actions of several individuals doing burnouts at Waikumete Cemetery yesterday afternoon.

Two men have been arrested, with two cars and a motorbike seized during the Police response.

Waitematā West Area Commander Inspector Simon Walker says several driving complaints were received just after 2pm.

“A person attending funeral proceedings at Waikumete began to do burnouts in front of the crematorium,” he says.

“The first Police unit on scene was surrounded by some attendees, including some choosing to jump on the vehicle.”

Please attribute to Chief Information Officer Matt Winter:

Police is releasing a further update on the measures taken since a rapid review of Police information security controls was done in June.

Following the review, the Police Executive Leadership Team approved a remediation plan with 26 actions to be implemented over a six-month period from July to December 2025.

We prioritised measures that could be implemented quickly and would prevent staff accessing inappropriate content or detect instances where that had happened.

Police have seized 36 kilograms of cocaine this afternoon, after its discovery stashed inside a container delivered to an Auckland business.

An investigation is now underway to locate the criminal syndicate involved in the importation.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jason Hunt, from the National Organised Crime Group, says unsuspecting workers made the discovery today.

“Staff working at the Auckland premises were going about unloading legitimate goods shipped from Brazil when the cocaine was discovered,” he says.

Police have commenced an operation on the Hibiscus Coast into a fire deliberately lit at a cafe over the weekend.

It comes as Waitematā North CIB continues to investigate another attempted arson and damage at nearby Ōrewa businesses in recent months.

Waitematā North Area Commander Inspector John Thornley says the most recent fire occurred late on Saturday 1 November.

“Operation Governor has been set up to investigate the most recent fire on the main strip in Ōrewa,” he says.

Attributable to Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood of West Coast Police:

A woman has been found deceased over the weekend after failing to return from a tramping expedition.

Police were called to the Fox River about 6am on Saturday 1 November after the 27-year-old woman was reported overdue from her tramp, having left on Thursday.

Her vehicle was located at the Fox River car park.

Police Search and Rescue conducted a search of the area, along with a helicopter, a Land Search and Rescue dog team and local Surf Life Saving.

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Lee Underhill:

Wellington Police are appealing for information after a shotgun was fired at a residential complex on Sunday afternoon.

Police were called to the Brooklyn Road property about 3.30pm on 2 November. While nobody was hit, we believe the incident targeted a specific individual, who suffered moderate injuries fleeing to safety.

Police are stepping up their presence on the North Shore with the launch of a dedicated suburban Beat Team, hitting the streets from today.

Building on the success of the Henderson Beat Team, which began patrolling in September, Police are expanding the initiative with a second suburban team to strengthen visibility and engagement across the North Shore.

The North Shore Beat Team will focus on Albany, Glenfield and Takapuna commercial centres.

One person has died following a serious crash in Rangiriri overnight.

Police were called to a two vehicle crash on Rodda Road at around 10pm yesterday.

Sadly, one person was located deceased at the scene.

Two other people were transported to hospital in a critical to serious condition.

The road was closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin:

Police have charged a man with murder after a woman was found deceased in a Central Auckland apartment yesterday evening.

Police were alerted to a possible incident at a Day Street address at around 7.35pm, and tragically arrived at the apartment a short time later where the woman was located.

A 38-year-old man who is known to the victim has been charged with murder and is expected to appear in Auckland District Court tomorrow.

One person has died after a serious crash in Whatawhata this evening.

At around 5.15pm, emergency services were alerted to a car that had gone into a river near Te Pahu Road.

Sadly, after the vehicle was removed, one person was located deceased.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducts a scene examination.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Regan Boucher,

A man has been remanded in custody following a search warrant at a property in Glenorchy.

This morning, the Otago Lakes Central Organised Crime Team executed a search warrant as part of an ongoing Operation, targeting the supply of Methamphetamine within the community.

A 46-year-old Glenorchy resident was taken into custody without incident.

This arrest is the culmination of significant and complex work by the Otago Lakes Central Organised Crime Team.

Attributable to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Glen Lindup, West Coast Area Investigations Manager,

Three men are before the courts after two serious assaults in Westport on Wednesday 29 October.

The first assault occurred on Wednesday evening, when the male victim was allegedly lured to an address by a man known to him and was subsequently assaulted by two other men at the address.

The victim has then managed to leave the address and sought medical treatment for his injuries.

One person has sadly died following a crash on State Highway 3, Rukuhia this afternoon.

Police and other emergency services were called to the two-vehicle crash, near the Narrows Road intersection, at around 1:20pm.

Sadly, one person was located deceased at the scene.

Two other people were transported to hospital in critical and serious condition.

The road remains closed, with diversions in place, while the Serious Crash Unit complete a scene examination.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

A solo day walk turned into a rescue mission when Southland was in a state of local emergency.

Southland Police are urging anyone heading into the bush to make sure they’re doing it safely after a day walker became lost attempting the Makarewa Falls Track on a stormy Labour Day.

Sergeant Alun Griffiths from Police Search and Rescue, Southland, says Police were alerted through the iPhone emergency satellite system shortly after 5pm on Monday. 

“There was significant tree fall in the area, and she’d lost her way.

Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on Tamaki Drive on 22 October.

He was Sean James Cleary, 61, of Point Chevalier.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

The family of the deceased ask for privacy as they grieve their loved one.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

One person has died following a serious crash on Great South Road, Epsom last night.

Emergency services were called to the single vehicle crash at around 6.45pm.

Sadly, despite best efforts, one person died at the scene.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Brent Cook, West Coast Police:

Police executed two search warrants in Greymouth and South Westland early this morning in relation to an ongoing nationwide operation to target organised crime, drug dealing and illegal possession of firearms.

The search warrants were executed with the assistance of the Armed Offenders Squad and involved staff from across the West Coast area and the wider Tasman district.