Police in Wairoa are now carrying firearms after multiple incidents in in the East Coast town yesterday.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
In the first incident, a car was shot at on Lucknow Street yesterday but no-one was injured.
A 19-year-old man has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and appeared in Gisborne District Court today.
Another two men, aged 19 and 23, were charged with unlawful assembly and assault in relation to another matter and appeared in court today.
In another incident, a man arrived at Wairoa Hospital last night with a gunshot wound to his leg. Police say they are working to understand how he was injured.
Police have also heard of several occasions where guns have been pointed at people or vehicles.
They say these incidents involve specific groups of people who are targeting each other.
Tairāwhiti Area Commander Inspector Sam Aberahama said in response to these incidents, Wairoa police officers have been authorised to carry firearms temporarily.
Police are asking people to remain alert to any suspicious activity, and to report anything concerning.
If anyone has information which could assist police, the can call 105 and quote file number 210123/1106, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.