Police make arrest in Rotorua homicide inquiry

Photo / File

Rotorua police yesterday arrested and charged a 38-year-old man in relation to the death of a 66-year-old man in November 2018.

Taratoa Hori Hokianga appeared in the Rotorua District Court today facing one charge of manslaughter.

It is alleged that on November 10 Hokianga caused the death of Niwhai Bryan by an unlawful act, namely neck compression.

Hokianga's next appearance is on July 5 in the High Court at Rotorua.

Detective Sergeant Richard Lang said the incident was isolated.

"This has been a thorough homicide investigation culminating in the arrest of a man known to the deceased," Lang said.

"We would like to reassure members of the public that this was an isolated incident."

As this matter is now before the courts, police will make no further comment.