Police were now working to piece together the circumstances surrounding the late-night shooting in an effort to identify the occupants in the second vehicle who fired shots at the victims.
Dalzell reassured the public, saying he believed the victims and offenders were linked, and the occupants in the second vehicle targeted the wounded pair.
"We want to reassure the community that this is not believed to be a random attack," said Dalzell.
"There are multiple people who know exactly what has taken place, and we urge them to do the right thing and contact police."
He said police had no information to suggest this incident was linked to the firearms incident in Puketona where a police officer was shot at.
"We know there is some concern in the community over the two recent firearms incidents in Northland.
"I want to reassure the public that we are working hard to investigate both matters.
"Any firearms incident is unacceptable and police treat these matters seriously. We will continue to work hard to identify those responsible so they can be held to account," said Dalzell.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Kaitaia Police on 105, quoting file number 201107/9132, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
