Ngāruawāhia homicide: Christchurch search warrants executed after Turipapa Tukere killed in Waikato brawl

Police are speaking with several people after searching premises across Christchurch after a woman’s death in a violent Ngāruawāhia brawl.

A homicide investigation is ongoing after Turipapa Tukere, 42, died in the small Waikato town, 20km north-west of Hamilton, on December 27.

Emergency services were called to a fight between multiple people on Waipa Esplanade, near the intersection of Newton St, about 1.30pm.

A critically injured Tukere was taken to the ambulance station on Jordan St but died before she could be airlifted to the hospital.

Acting Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders said inquiries into Tukere’s death led the investigation team to several Christchurch residential addresses.

“Staff from the Waikato-based investigation team travelled to Christchurch where they were assisted by Canterbury Police, including the Armed Offenders Squad, in executing several search warrants, today,” Saunders said.

Turipapa Tukere, 42, of Ngāruawāhia, died after a brawl on December 27.

“Police are now speaking with several people as we work to find answers to key questions, including who was involved and what occurred prior to Turipapa’s death.”

Saunders said police were committed to getting justice for Tukere and her whānau, and prosecuting those responsible for her death.

Police still wished to hear from witnesses or anyone who thought they could help the investigation.

“Please contact police via 105 either online or over the phone. Please reference file number 241227/6958.”

Saunders earlier said the brawl could have been retaliatory and involved “two distinct groups of gang members” - Tribal Huk and Mongrel Mob.

Accordingly, a gang conflict warrant was issued under the Criminal Activity Intervention Legislation Act 2023. The act allows police to apply for special search warrant powers during times of gang conflict.

A family member earlier posted on Tukere’s Facebook page, saying; “Rest in love my aunty I can’t believe your gone, gone to soon my aunty [sic]”.

“Still tryna comprehend no one deserve that especially not you but I hope you didn’t suffer pup pup,” another said.

Another person commented; “no one deserves that, special not YOU...until we meet on the other side, to have a runner down and katakata... look over us, and give uncle, Nun a hug for me please”.