Palmerston North police still seeking gunman

File photo / NZ Herald

An elderly man ran for help as his son was shot in the leg during an argument in a Palmerston North street.

The man and his 50-year-old son were at home in the Highbury suburb when they noticed movement near the son's car which was parked on the street, about 10.30pm yesterday.

Police said the men went outside to investigate and were confronted by an offender.

The son and the offender got into a short physical altercation while the father, believed to be in aged his 70s, ran back into the house to call police.

The offender then shot the younger man in the leg and ran away.

The victim was taken to Palmerston North Hospital where he was scheduled to have surgery for non-life threatening injuries.

Police and the Armed Offenders Squad were called out last night but the gunman was not found.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Harrison said it was unclear if the incident was gang-related, but he confirmed the men knew each other.

"I want to reassure the public that police are committed to maintaining safe communities, and this was an isolated incident.''

The weapon has not been recovered but police believe it may have been a shotgun.

Investigators today completed a scene examination at the property and formally interviewed the victim and his father.

Police were still keen to speak to anyone who may have any information about the incident.

"We are continuing to interview witnesses and make area inquiries, and every effort is being made to locate the offender, whose identity is known to police,'' Mr Harrison said.

Anyone with information could call Palmerston North police (06) 351 3600 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.