Emergency services at the scene. Photo: Supplied
Police say they believe two incidents - where one man died and another suffered serious injuries - in Waikanae on Wednesday are related.
Three men aged 20, 25 and 26 are facing charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after a man was found critically injured in Kakariki Grove about 3.15pm.
At the time, Detective Inspector Jamie Woods said the man died at the scene despite medical attention.
On Thursday, Woods said police were treating the death as a homicide and further charges were "currently being considered".
He said another man was found with serious injuries just over eight kilometres away in Hadleigh Court, Paraparaumu at about 4.25pm on Wednesday.
"We believe the incidents in Kakariki Grove and Hadleigh Court are related, and we are working to establish exactly what has occurred, and to identify and locate anyone else who may have been involved," Woods said.
A neighbour of the Kakariki Grove address told RNZ they were outside on Wednesday afternoon when they heard loud voices and what "appeared to be a gunshot".
"Then the screaming got louder and there was a second shot, I think."
The person said the commotion was followed by the sound of cars "taking off down the street".
They said neighbours were a little bit nervous and shaken up.
Woods appealed to members of the public who had information about either incident to get in touch.
"A large number of officers from across Wellington District have been deployed to assist in this investigation, and Waikanae residents can expect to see a continued police presence in the Kakariki Grove and Hadleigh Court areas as we continue our enquiries," Woods said.
A police car on Kakariki Grove in Waikanae. Photo: Supplied
Another neighbour told RNZ armed police were stationed outside the property on Thursday morning.
"They're the big guns, not the small ones."
They said there were tents and plastic on the ground at the house and residents were signing in and out of the street cordon.
Residents were "battening down," they said.
"It's kinda freaky."
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