West Auckland stabbings not a return to 'murder capital' - councillor

  • 17/10/2016
An investigation is underway into a stabbing in Glendene which left a 42 year old man dead (Newshub.)
An investigation is underway into a stabbing in Glendene which left a 42 year old man dead (Newshub.)

A woman is due to appear in court today over a stabbing in Te Atatu, one of two violent killings in West Auckland over the weekend which have brought up unpleasant memories for the community.

The woman is charged with murder after allegedly stabbing a 36-year-old woman to death in Te Atatu on Saturday, hours before a 42-year-old man died after a stabbing in nearby Glendene.

The region became known as the country's murder capital in 2014, with seven violent deaths occurring in six months.

However, Waitakere councillor Penny Hulse believes the situation is different this time around.

"These are certainly not random acts of street violence, so people don't feel threatened for their safety."

She denies the acts of violence are a sign the area is regressing into old ways.

"The west has its problems like anywhere else but we are a strong and caring community and when bad things happen, people draw together."

Ms Hulse says it's something no-one wants to see in their neighbourhood.

"People are obviously pretty shaken, two stabbings within a few hours of each other is shocking for the community."

But she west Auckland is strong and knows residents will do what they can for those affected.

"Obviously everyone's thoughts are with the families involved and for the moment that's where the focus needs to be.

"Once we find out a little bit more, the community will be looking to see how they can offer support."

Newshub.