Homicide inquiry after man dies at motel

• Published date: 10 March 2022
• Author: Kelly Makiha
• Publication title: Taupo Weekender

A man died at Adelphi Motel, on the corner of Kaimanawa and Heuheu Streets, on Sunday after suffering critical injuries. He died at the motel in what witnesses have described as a “bad” scene

Police are appealing to anyone who saw anyone arrive about 6.30am on Sunday in a car. They are investigating whether a firearms incident later that evening is connected to the man’s death.

The man’s name is yet to be released but the Rotorua Daily Post was told he had children and had lived with his family at the motel since December.

A fed-up resident, who didn’t want to be named, has long complained about behaviour at the motel to police and the Ministry of Social Development.

The resident asked police last year, under the Official Information Act, how many times police had been to the motel as part of complaints about the unsavoury behaviour of those staying there under emergency housing. The resident said it was a shame about the man’s death, especially since the community had raised concerns. The police Official Information Act response said police had attended the motel 39 times between January 1, 2020, and March 15, 2021.

That was made up of 13 reports of assault, breach of the peace and disorder, 19 for family harm offences and seven for other offences. Police had also investigated five reports of theft from the property. Ministry of Social Development regional commissioner Mike Bryant said the ministry was very concerned about what happened at the motel.

“Our deep sympathies go out to all the whānau affected by Sunday’s tragic event. We have conducted welfare checks with all whānau at the motel and are assisting those who wish to move. Some have elected to stay.”

He said ministry staff would stay in close contact over the...