A number of people are currently assisting police with their enquiries into a shooting in Kawerau this morning.
The incident occurred at a River Road property at approximately 6.15am. Two men aged 38 and 48 remain in a critical condition in Waikato Hospital.
Throughout the day a number of properties in the town have been searched, area enquiries have been carried out and the scene has been subject to examination.
As a result of that combined work, three local men are tonight assisting police with their enquiries.
A fourth man who was assisting police this morning following the search of an address in Valley Road, Kawerau has since been arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm but this arrest does not directly relate to the shooting.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Whakatane Police on 07 308 5255. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.