Wayne Doyle holds an 'extremely influential position' in the Head Hunters gang, police say. Photo: RNZ / John Edens
Police say the seizure of nearly $15 million in assets after a decade-long investigation deals a notorious Auckland gang a significant blow.
A judge at the High Court in Auckland issued profit forfeiture orders to Head Hunters president Wayne Doyle on Tuesday.
The orders included nearly $275,000 in cash and the Head Hunters' East chapter headquarters on Marua Road, which police restrained in 2017.
Also forfeited were properties in Freemans Bay, New Lynn and Mt Wellington, money held in two bank accounts and a vehicle.
Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said the orders were one of the most lengthy and complex proceedings every undertaken by the Asset Recovery Unit.
"I am delighted with today's decision, which is substantial and deals a blow to the operations of the Head Hunter's largest chapter, based in east Auckland."
Coster said the orders confirmed Doyle held a powerful position within the Head Hunters.
"This decision confirms what police have long known in that Mr Doyle sits at the pinnacle of the Head Hunters, and holds an extremely influential position," he said.
"Mr Doyle set up the East chapter of the Head Hunters so as to promote, and profit from, the criminal offending of its members who pay a portion of their ill-gotten gains directly to him."
The decision found the Head Hunters were an organised criminal group, with members engaging in drug dealing and violent property offending for profit, he said.
"This sends a very clear message to all gangs and organised crime groups profiting from the misery they create in our communities - police will come for you."