A teenager is recovering in hospital after he was shot in the stomach in a drive-by shooting in Taupo last night.
The victim was hit as he and a male friend walked to the shops in Taharepa Rd about 6.30pm, Taupo police Area Commander Inspector Steve Bullock said.
"The slug hit the 17-year-old in his lower abdomen area, lodging in his upper leg. He was operated on at Rotorua Hospital today."
His injuries were not life-threatening and his companion had not been injured.
Police had questioned one occupant of a car overnight and identified other suspects, Mr Bullock said.
It was not clear what the motive for the shooting was, but police believed the offenders knew the victim, he said.
"It certainly does not appear to have been a random incident, and local residents should feel reassured that this is the case. At the same time, we are extremely fortunate that no innocent member of the public was harmed."
Mr Bullock said police had spoken to several witnesses and the victim, but wanted to hear from anyone else in the area at the time.
"This was a serious incident, warranting an urgent response. Police have responded quickly and we will be working hard to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and are held accountable for their actions."