A man was also found dead at the Waitārere Beach Rd address, and the police were not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident. Horowhenua Mayor Bernie Wanden told the Herald police were responding to a “tragic family incident”. Police say the Waitārere Beach shooting is an isolated 'family incident'. Photo / Mark MitchellA local shopkeeper said he was familiar with the couple that lived at the Waitārere Beach Rd address, but he did not know them personally. Wellington man Wal is visiting Waitārere Beach and said the shooting was “bizarre - it’s supposedly a quiet little town”.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 13, 2026 19:36 UTC