Homicide investigation launched after man found dead near Raglan’s Ohautira Rd

Police have launched a homicide investigation in Raglan after a man was found on a road.

Armed police descended on Ohautira Rd about 8.15am today.

Acting Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders said they wanted anyone with information about the death to speak to police and said officers would remain in the area while investigations continue.

Saunders said the area would remain cordoned off while a scene examination was done and police searched the surrounds.

“Police urge anyone who has information that could assist with inquiries to contact us via 105, referencing file number 240305/1701 or Operation Nikau,” he said.

A police spokesperson told Newstalk ZB police will be in the area for a number of days to complete the scene examination and conduct area inquiries.

“Police will be looking for any evidence that may be of relevance to the investigation,” the spokesperson said.

“At this time Police believe this to be an isolated incident and do not consider there is any danger to the wider public.”

Diversions were in place in the area, and motorists were advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

A Te Uku resident, who asked to remain anonymous, told the Waikato Herald armed police and a helicopter could be seen from her property.

“There was a chopper in the air and they all converged down Ohautira Rd.”

A motorist, who also asked to remain anonymous, reported heavy traffic along State Highway 23 before the Te Uku turnoff.

A St John spokesperson said that the organisation was notified of the incident.

“I’ll refer you to Police for any further comment,” the spokesperson said.

Malisha Kumar is a multimedia journalist based in Hamilton. She joined the Waikato Herald in 2023 after working for Radio 1XX in Whakatāne.

Maryana Garcia is a multimedia reporter based in Hamilton covering live news in the Waikato. She previously worked with the Rotorua Daily Post and Bay of Plenty Times.

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