Attributable to Sergeant Tony Woodbridge of Oamaru Police: 

Police are asking for witnesses to come forward after a serious two-vehicle crash in Lindis Pass this morning, which left three people in critical condition. 

Emergency services were called to the scene, at Omarama, near Dalrachney Station, about 7.40am.

Three people were transported to hospital, where they remain in critical condition, and our thoughts are with their families at this extremely difficult time. 

Attributable to Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston, Northland District Crime Manager: 

An investigation is underway after a sudden death at a residential address in Haruru falls, near Paihia, in the early hours of this morning.

Emergency services were called to the property about 4.25am, after a report that a man had been found unresponsive. 

He was pronounced deceased a short time later. 

His death is currently being treated as unexplained, and a post-mortem examination will take place tomorrow. 

An officer remains in Wellington Hospital, surrounded by family, after a critical incident in Manawatu overnight. 

The officer, a Constable based in Palmerston North, was deploying road spikes on Kairanga Bunnythorpe Road about 2am, when the vehicle hit him, throwing him several metres. 

Central District Commander Superintendent Dion Bennett said the officer’s colleague at the scene suffered minor injuries but immediately provided support while other units urgently responded. 

Police will be available to speak to media this afternoon following this morning’s incident near Palmerston North. 

Central District Commander Superintendent Dion Bennett will speak at a stand-up in Wellington at 1.45pm. 

Interested media are asked to RSVP to [email protected].

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

Police will be available to speak to media this afternoon following this morning’s incident near Palmerston North. 

Central District Commander Superintendent Dion Bennett will speak at a stand-up in Wellington at 1.45pm. 

Interested media are asked to RSVP to [email protected].

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

One person has died following a crash on Cameron Road, Tauranga this morning.

The single vehicle crash was reported just after 5:40am.

The sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

The road remains closed, between 15th Ave and 17th Ave, while a scene examination is conducted.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

Three people, including two youths, have been arrested and charged following a series of burglaries in the Northland region. 

The arrests come after two commercial premises in Ruakākā and One Tree Point were targeted in recent weeks, with cash and a significant amount of alcohol among the items taken. 

Detective Senior Sergent Shane Pilmer, Whangārei-Kaipara Area Investigations Manager, says the offenders allegedly used stolen vehicles during both offences.

“Around 4.30am on 2 August, a vehicle was used to gain entry to a Rauiri Drive store. 

Attribute: Senior Sergeant Sam Parata, Area Manager – Prevention

Two prolific youth offenders went from wheels to heels after an attempted car theft. But their fancy footwork, and quick change of clothes, were no match for eagled-eyed CCTV operators and the Police dog unit.

Rotorua Lakes Council CCTV operators first caught the duo on camera trying to break into a blue Mazda Demio in the Rotorua CBD area at approximately 4.40pm on 20 August and immediately alerted Police.

Attribute: Detective Senior Sergeant Michael Whitty

Methamphetamine with an estimated street value of approximately $100,000, along with two handguns and ammunition have been seized following a targeted Police operation in Marlborough.

A 39-year-old man appeared in the Blenheim District Court this week in relation to the seizures. He’s been remanded and will reappear on 24 August. 

He is facing charges relating to the possession and supply of methamphetamine, as well as unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

A man who allegedly presented a fake pistol inside a store at Lynn Mall before stealing a hoodie is now in custody.

At about 7pm, Police received a call from security staff at the New Lynn shopping centre who reported a male had allegedly told staff he wasn’t shoplifting but did have a weapon.

Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Nick Salter, says the alleged offender then lifted his top to reveal the handle of what was reported to be a pistol sitting in his waist band.