A couple are on the run from the police after robbing a dying man in the Coromandel town of Waihi last week.
Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
The man and woman, aged in their 20s, took Henry Pere's phone and wallet while locals were trying to give him CPR and revive him after he suffered a heart attack.
Mr Pere later died in hospital.
Waihi mayor John Tregidga said Mr Pere was well known in the community.
"He's an old identity, and well-known and well-respected, and it's just sad for the family, to be honest. Just to lose him, for one thing, but for this to happen on top, it just makes it so much harder for the family."
Mr Tregidga said he understood the police were following strong leads and had a warrant out for the couple's arrest.
