Man charged with murder over Hāwera’s death

The police station in Hawera.
Photo: RNZ/Robin Martin

A man arrested in connection with a death in Hāwera has been charged with murder.

The 46-year-old is accused of killing 26-year-old Whatitiri Whakaruru, who was found seriously injured at a property on Gladstone Street in the city of Taranaki about 10pm on Monday. Whakaruru later died from his injuries.

On Wednesday, police said they had made an arrest and were not looking for anyone else in connection with Whakaruru’s death.

On Sunday morning, they confirmed the suspect had been charged with murder.

He was due to appear in the New Plymouth High Court on May 17.

“We continue to appeal for information from anyone who may have seen anything that could be related to the incident on Gladstone Road between 9.30pm and 11pm on Monday, April 22,” Detective Senior Sergeant Debbie Gower said.

“Anyone with information is asked to call 105, or report online at 105.police.govt.nz, by clicking ‘Update Report’.”

The file number is 240423/5202. You can also pass on information anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.