Armed police respond to shooting at Papatoetoe hotel, offender still at large

A firearm-wielding man is on the run after police responded to an active shooter alert at a South Auckland hotel last night.

Duty supervisor for Auckland Police, Kerry Watson, said police were called to the Allenby Park Hotel in Papatoetoe at 6.30pm on Wednesday after a complaint of a man with a firearm.

“As we were driving to the location, it was updated that shots had been fired. We arrived and we entered quite promptly as we were worried about the safety of those persons inside,” Watson said.

Police soon identified the offender had fled just before their arrival.

Great South Rd was shut as at least 25 police vehicles responded to the incident, an NZME photographer at the scene said.

Watson said the immediate scene is safe and more information would be provided as it comes to light.

“All I can say is the immediate scene is safe, we’re making inquiries to identify who this offender is.”

Police are aware that the offender was carrying a long-barrelled firearm.

At least 15 armed police officers surrounded the hotel upon arrival. Residents of the hotel were lining the footpath of Great South Rd as police investigated.

No injuries were reported.

“There’s a lot of occupants in there... young families, older people as such, but at this stage all the inquiries reveal that they’re all safe and sound,” Watson said.

Great South Rd between Puhinui Rd and Carlie St reopened shortly before 8.30pm.

Watson said police would be in attendance at the hotel for some time as a scene examination is completed.

Benjamin Plummer is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. He has worked for the Herald since 2022.