Police investigating after two bodies found on Anzac Valley Rd in rural Waitākere, west Auckland, on 18 April 2024. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi
The couple who died at a rural Auckland address on Thursday afternoon can be named as Alfred Helge Hansen and Gaye Carole Hansen.
The pair, aged in their 80s, were found dead in a paddock by a relative who'd gone to check on them on Thursday morning.
It is believed they died after a ram attacked them.
Stuff understands the husband went to feed the ram, but didn't return. His wife was killed when she went looking for him.
Police said another person at the farm was injured by the ram.
Police cars at the property on Anzac Valley Rd in rural Waitākere. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi
Police were called to the property on Anzac Valley Rd in Waitākere just before 7.30am on Thursday, and a scene examination was underway.
Police said the ram was still in the paddock when they arrived and it was shot after becoming aggressive towards them.
The victims' nephew and family spokesperson Dean Burrell said their deaths were linked to an animal.
"My aunty and her husband lived at this property. They've lived here for about eight years. Unfortunately they've both lost their lives in a tragic accident.
The circumstances of their passing was very unexpected, he said, adding that he was still coming to terms with it.
Burrell said the couple rented the property. They were retired hobby farmers, and had sheep, cattle and chickens for 8 years.
"They're good people. They're over 80. They don't deserve this.
"Everyone is in shock as to what's happened. They are very upset."
Burrell said he felt like he was dreaming when he found out what happened. "I just didn't believe it."
Burrell, a front line police officer, was supporting the family given he understood the formal investigation process. His grief was yet to sink in, he said.
He and his family requested privacy while they came to terms with the loss.