Police investigating a fatal shooting at Thames on Saturday have revealed further shots were fired at a Kopu property earlier that day.
Vaughan William John Te Moananui, 33, died after being shot by police during an armed stand-off at a Campbell St house just after 4.30pm on Saturday.
Investigation head Detective Inspector Chris Page today said their inquiries had uncovered a second incident where a Paeroa man was left with superficial injuries to his leg after being shot at a Kopu house about 2.30am.
Mr Te Moananui lived in Kopu.
"This is consistent with information we've received from a member of the public who reported hearing shots at about 2.30am on Saturday.
"Police have also now spoken with a Paeroa man, who was shot in the leg during the incident and is helping us with our inquiries. He received a superficial injury and has received medical treatment."
Mr Te Moananui was a father of two teenage sons and grandfather to a baby girl. His stepfather Chris Simpson earlier told the New Zealand Herald that Mr Te Moananui was battling demons at the time but didn't want to hurt anyone else.
The family were keenly awaiting the results from the four investigations launched after the incident to learn more about what happened, but did not hold a grudge against police for their actions.
Mr Page said police were not only still seeking information regarding the events on Saturday afternoon, but also the incident in Kopu about 2.30am.
People are asked to contact the Operation Strobe team at Thames police station directly on 07 867 9609, or anonymously through the Crimestoppers organisation on 0800 555 111.
In a separate matter, Mr Page said police were disappointed at some social media commentary containing speculative and inaccurate information about the incident, including allegations that officers from Thames were involved in the death of Mr Te Moananui.
"Such speculation is not only completely inaccurate, but is also extremely unhelpful in trying to building an accurate picture of what has occurred.
"From the information we already have, I can confirm that no officers from Thames were involved in using firearms at any time during this incident.
"I can also assure the community that there will be a very thorough and robust investigation into Saturday's tragic events."
Various investigations by police and an investigation by the Independent Police Conduct Authority are continuing.
By Belinda Feek of the New Zealand Herald
