A Queenstown hairdresser who attacked his flatmate with a knife is likely to be deported. The defendant then grabbed a large kitchen knife and began swinging it at the victim, who was cut on his fingers as he tried to defend himself. Kalutharage also caused cuts to the victim’s upper arm and ear before a third flatmate entered the kitchen, restrained him and forced him to release the knife. Brandishing the knife by his head, Kalutharage advanced on the victim, but a fourth flatmate managed to grab his arm and take the knife off him. Although his visa was not due to expire until September, he was likely to be deported before then.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 20, 2026 16:01 UTC