Murder investigation after gunshots heard and man found in Otara

Police have arrested and charged a man following a homicide investigation into the death of a male in Otara last night

Police were still working to confirm the identity of the victim.

A 35-year-old man, who is believed to be known to the victim, has now been
charged with murder.

He is due to appear in the Manukau District Court tomorrow.

Inquiries were still continuing but police said at this stage they were not seeking
anyone else in relation to the incident.

Police were called to an address on Zelda Ave at about 10pm on Tuesday night,
following reports of a firearm being discharged.

Police arrived to find an injured male on the footpath, suffering from a
gunshot wound.

Medical attention was provided by members of the public and police. He died at the scene.

Several witnesses were assisting police with the investigation, a police spokesperson said earlier today.

Police at the scene. Photo / Greg Bowker

Police have cordoned off the area of Zelda Ave between Maytime St and the walkway on to Othello Drive in Otara.

Police have told media at the scene to stop speaking to neighbours, out of fear of "something like this happening again".

When asked if the incident was gang-related, the officer at the scene said he didn't know.

The area was closed to all through traffic and was restricted to residents only.

Police asked to avoid the area if possible.

Neighbours told Newstalk ZB this morning they heard noises last night but put it down to fireworks.

One woman said she went back to sleep after the noise but realised it was not fireworks after her son woke her to say police had come to the street.

Police are appealing for people who know the deceased or have information about what happened to contact the Manukau Police Station on 0508 422 443, or if they wish to remain anonymous to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Counties Manukau Police are expected to release more information this morning.