Two men charged over Matakana Island New Year's Day death

  • 14/01/2019

Two men have been charged over the death of a man on Matakana Island.

Freedom Taikato, 22, died in a suspected homicide on New Year's Day. The cause of death has not been released but the post-mortem has been completed.

Police say two men have been charged with assault and will appear in court this week.

"A 23-year-old and a 59-year-old man have been arrested and are reappearing in Tauranga District Court on Thursday (January 17), separately charged with common assault," Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlinson says.

"The investigation into Mr Taikato's death is continuing, based in Tauranga and periodically on Matakana Island."

Only around 250 people live on the island, which is just north of Tauranga.

Anyone with information is urged to get in touch with Tauranga police on (07) 577 4300, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Snr Sgt Rawlinson said they're particularly looking to speak to those who were at a temporary campground on Matakana Point Rd over New Year's Eve and Day.

Only around 250 people live on the island, which is just north of Tauranga.

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