Auckland Police are still hunting the gunman who shot a man in the lower back and buttock early this morning near Whenuapai.
Police were called to the incident around 4.30am after a 33-year-old man received gunshot wounds on Brigham Creek Rd.
The man was taken to hospital in a critical condition this morning, however, police told the Herald this evening he was stable.
A spokesperson for police said they remained at the scene throughout the day and inquiries are continuing to locate the offender.
This morning, Detective Senior Sergeant Marcia Murray said initial inquiries suggested the man was shot outside an address on the road.
She urged anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area to contact police.
A St John spokeswoman said they were called to an incident at 4.27am and a man was taken to Auckland Hospital in a moderate condition.
Residents have reported hearing loud bangs or gunshots, with one person saying there was a "guy running around with a shotgun".
A main road was closed for several hours following the shooting, however a section of Brigham Creek Rd is now open again.
The road was earlier closed between the SH16 roundabout and Joseph McDonald Drive but had since reopened.
However, police remained in the area and warned motorists to expect delays.
Police were conducting a scene examination this morning and working to find the shooter.
"We are trying to establish exactly what happened in the lead-up to this incident, so anyone who might have any information is encouraged to call Waitemata Crime Squad on 09-839 0697 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111," Murray said.