In an unusual move, the whanau of a roadworker shot and killed near Taupo have released a statement both in English and Maori.
Police say it appears George Charles Taiaroa, 67, of Hamilton, was shot while directing traffic at a road diversion on Tram Road in the Kinleith Forest area just after 3pm on Tuesday.
Through the police, Mr Taiaroa's family acknowledge the overwhelming support they've received while they deal with the loss of a loving husband, father and grandfather.
They are asking the media to respect their wishes and give them space to grieve over Mr Taiaroa.
Their message in Maori reads:
"E mihi ana ki te tokomaha kua tae mai ki te manaaki i te whānau. Heoi anō e īnoi atu ana ki te ao papāho kia whakawāteahia mai te whānau i tēnei wā kia tangi, kia poroporoakī i tō rātou koroua."
