Hawke's Bay police have discovered a loaded shotgun hidden under a bed in a gang member's house during a search.
Photo: 123RF
A Mongrel Mob Redcoats member will appear in Hastings District Court this afternoon charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, and cannabis possession.
Police said they were called to the house for a family harm incident, where they found the loaded semi-automatic weapon and ammunition under the bed.
Several shotgun cartridges were allegedly found in the house and the man's car.
The gang member was living at the property with his partner and five-year-old child.
Eastern District organised crime unit's Detective Senior Sergeant Dave de Lange said it was extremely concerning that a young child was living in a situation where loaded firearms were easily accessible.
"This is a major worry for everyone involved and police are working tirelessly to curb gang criminal activity and keep our community safe."
"We have a specialised unit that is focusing solely on gang crime and we will continue to target gang members. We can't do this alone though - we rely heavily on the public to let us know what is happening in their area and tell us of any concerns they may have," he said.