Napier mayor Kirsten Wise appeals to local leaders to help resolve rising gang violence

The Napier mayor is appealing to local leaders to help resolve rising gang violence in Hawke's Bay.

Speaking on The AM Show, Kirsten Wise said the increase is "very concerning", and she wants to move the issue forward.

"I've had that conversation with local kaumātua, and the police would need to be involved, and of course Minister of Police Stuart Nash, who is also our local MP," she said.

"So I would be open to sitting down together with the appropriate parties and having that conversation with all of our local leaders."

A 25-year-old man is due to appear in the Hastings District Court on Wednesday, following a suspected gang shooting in Taradale, Napier on Sunday.

One person was injured in the altercation and was taken to hospital.

The Taradale gunfire followed a firearms incident in Ruatoria on Saturday.

Police confirmed both events appear to relate to ongoing tensions between Black Power and the Mongrel Mob, and there is an increased police presence in both areas.

"Police are taking these incidents extremely seriously and the safety and wellbeing of the community is our priority," Eastern District Commander Superintendent Tania Kura said in a statement.

"No one deserves violence in their community and we are determined, with the support of the community, to hold those responsible to account."

A 49-year-old man was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm in relation to the suspected gang shootout in Ruatoria. He appeared in the Gisborne District Court on Monday.