Waikanae homicide: Police identify Michael Kenneth Tofts as victim, two more arrested

Police have revealed the name of a man killed in Waikanae last week.

He was 45-year-old Michael Kenneth Tofts.

It is believed Tofts’ killing, which is being investigated as a homicide, is related to another serious incident in the town later that day.

Authorities have also said two more men have been arrested in relation to the killing, taking the total to five people in custody.

Emergency services were called to Kākāriki Grove in the Kāpiti Coast town, 64km north of Wellington, about 3.15pm last Wednesday.

Detective Inspector Jamie Woods said three men – aged 20, 25 and 26 – have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm in relation to the incident.

Two other men, aged 23 and 35 were arrested following Armed Offenders Squad search warrants in Naenae and Lower Hutt this morning.

They have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Police guard the scene on Kākāriki Grove, Waikanae, where a man was found critically injured and later died. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Woods said police were also investigating an incident in Hadleigh Court, Waikanae, about 4.25pm the day before, where a man was found with serious injuries.

“We believe the incidents in Kakariki Grove and Hadleigh Court are related,” he said.

Police said it had been an “incredibly difficult time for Mr Tofts’ family and we are providing them with support”.

The investigation has been dubbed Operation Heathcote.

Police say many investigators have been working on the case.

“A large number of investigators are working hard to determine the sequence of events leading up to the death of Mr Tofts, and to identify all individuals involved,” Woods said.

Police remain at the Kākāriki Grove address as a scene examination continues.

A neighbour told the Herald the property thought to be at the centre of the fatal incident was well known to other residents.

“We’ve seen the Armed Offenders Squad there before, searching the place, and having the people inside go outside.

“And we’ve had a guy come up here [to our house] on a motorbike who told us we should call the police.”

She called the police 105 non-emergency number and reported what she’d been told, the woman said.

Kāpiti Coast District Council had also previously been contacted about vehicles on the property, she said.

She wasn’t sure how many people lived on site.

“I know there’s a bus there. It’s a bit of a shambles.”

The Herald contacted police about the woman’s claims, but they were unable to comment. The council has also been contacted.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact police on 105, quoting file number 251119/8049.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.