Fourth arrest made as Mt Wellington homicide investigation widens into Waikato

Two further arrests have been made in Operation Hawkin, the ongoing homicide investigation in Mt Wellington.

The investigation has been underway since the afternoon of December 5.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard, of Auckland City CIB, says four arrests have now been made in the investigation to date.

“Yesterday evening, police were speaking with a man taken into custody in the Waikato region near Te Awamutu.

“We have since charged the 53-year-old man with being an accessory after the fact to murder,” Beard says.

“A further search warrant was carried out in Auckland today, resulting in the arrest of a 32-year-old man.”

Beard says the man has also been charged with being an accessory after the fact to murder.

The men are expected to appear today in the Hamilton and Auckland District Courts respectively.

“Our investigation remains ongoing, and we cannot rule out further arrests being made as we progress in this matter,” Beard says.

Police have completed scene examinations on Harris Road and Laud Avenue, where a blue Nissan March believed to be involved was found on the day of the attack. Detectives continue to carry out area canvassing and review CCTV.

Police are urging anyone with information, including dashcam or CCTV footage from around noon on December 5 on Harris Road or Laud Avenue, to contact them via 105 or online using reference 251205/6107. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

A Coroner’s interim non-publication order prevents the release of the victim’s identity until at least 22 December 2025.