Man killed in Christchurch ‘gang’ altercation had cancer, was ‘making positive changes’ in life

The man who died in hospital after a violent, alleged gang altercation at a Christchurch house last week was also battling cancer, his family have revealed.

Robert Corey Haimona died in hospital yesterday, eight days after he was injured in an altercation at a property in Hoani St, Northcote.

A firearm was discharged during the violence that spilled on to the street, police say.

The fight broke out on Hoani St, Northcote, in Christchurch.

Three men were charged with wounding Haimona and aggravated robbery.

Police are considering further charges following Haimona’s death.

They are all in custody and are expected to reappear in the Christchurch District Court on March 17.

His family announced his death on Facebook last night.

“With broken hearts ... today we farewelled a much-loved father, adored grandfather, precious son, devoted brother, loving uncle, proud nephew, and a treasured member of our whānau,” his sister wrote.

“Corey left us surrounded by deep love and care, embraced by his whānau.

“The mamae is heavy and still very raw. We are taking things moment by moment as we navigate this incredibly difficult time. We don’t have any further details to share right now but will provide updates when we can.”

A Givealittle page, set up before Haimona died, stated that he had cancer.

“Our whānau is going through one of the hardest times of our lives. Robert Corey Haimona is currently in hospital after a brutal altercation while already battling cancer,” it said.

“As if cancer wasn’t enough, our family is now facing the fear and heartbreak of seeing him fight for his life following this violent altercation.

“No matter his past, Robert is a son, a brother, a father, and someone who has been trying to make positive changes since his cancer diagnosis.

“He deserves love, support, and the chance to heal – and his family deserves to be by his side during this critical time.”

Police previously confirmed the incident at Hoani St was gang-related.

Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves gave further insight into that last night.

Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves. Photo / NZ Herald

“Police can confirm that the individuals involved were associated with two separate gangs, however our investigation to date indicates this was not a gang-motivated attack,” she said.

“This appears to be an isolated incident between specific individuals.”

Reeves said police continued to support Haimona’s family, who were “devastated”.

“We want to be absolutely clear that any form of retaliation will not be tolerated,” she said.

“Anyone considering taking matters into their own hands should expect an immediate and firm response.”

Reeves acknowledged the Hoani St incident had been “unsettling” to the community.

“We want to reassure you that there is no information to suggest any ongoing risk to the wider public,” she said.

“Our teams are maintaining a visible presence and continue to work closely with specialist units, intelligence staff, and community partners to ensure your safety.”

The Givealittle page for Haimona’s family can be found here.

Anna Leask is a senior journalist who covers national crime and justice. She joined the Herald in 2008 and has worked as a journalist for 20 years with a particular focus on family and gender-based violence, child abuse, sexual violence, homicides, mental health and youth crime. She writes, hosts and produces the award-winning podcast A Moment In Crime, released monthly on nzherald.co.nz