Inspector Ross Grantham Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
Extra police are on patrol in Levin after a man turned up to a healthcare centre with a gunshot wound to his thigh and shots were fired from a car at a house on Monday.
Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham described recent shooting events in the area as "brainless violence" that put people at risk of harm.
The gun-shot victim was transferred to Palmerston North Hospital in a serious condition and Grantham said enquiries were ongoing.
"Events that involve firearms are extremely concerning and we aren't wasting time to find those responsible," Grantham said.
"We have put additional officers on patrol, but we need to hear from anyone who has any information that may help."
About 8.55pm on Monday, police were called after a firearm was discharged from a vehicle on Hinemoa Street, hitting a house.
"Thankfully nobody was injured, but the occupants and neighbours were shaken by the event."
A scene guard remained in place overnight and a scene examination was ongoing on Tuesday.
Ten hours later, five shots were reported to have been heard on Mabel Street, Grantham said.
"Police located a shed that appeared to have been shot and a scene examination is ongoing."
Grantham said investigation teams were making a number of enquiries and urged anyone with information to contact police.
"There will be a visible police presence while we complete scene examinations and speak with neighbours and those involved.
"At this early stage, we are still working to determine what firearm was used in the shootings targeting properties, and we don't yet know why this happened.
"It's brainless violence that puts people at real risk of harm and we are focused on finding those involved.
He said Levin was a caring community and residents didn't want such violence in their town.
"We know this will be unsettling, and the additional officers who are on duty will be carrying out patrols across the town.
"My message to the community is help us if you have any information at all, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, please contact us."
Anyone with information is asked to make a report online, or call 105 using the following reference numbers:
- P063528842 for the Hinemoa Street shooting
- P063530513 for the Mabel Street shooting.
Alternatively, information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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