Two men charged with the murder of Ryan Woodford at a Motel in Taupō

  • 07/06/2022
Adelphi Hotel, Taupō.
Adelphi Hotel, Taupō. Photo credit: Google Maps

Police have charged two people with murder after the death of a man at a motel in Taupō.

Originally from Pahiatua, Ryan Woodford, 30, was killed while living at the Adelphi Motel on Sunday 6 March, propelling police into a homicide investigation to find his killers.

Police have confirmed in a statement a 31-year-old man and a 40-year-old man have been arrested and charged with murder for Woodford's death as a part of Operation Dell. 

The pair will appear in Taupō District Court on Wednesday.

"We continue to support the whānau of Mr Woodford and extend our deepest sympathies at this difficult time as they grieve the loss of their loved one,"  Detective Sergeant Andy Livingstone said.

"Police would like to thank the community for their support and cooperation throughout the investigation.

"We'd like to acknowledge the public for the information we received, which contributed and assisted our team of detectives piecing together the events of that morning.

"I would also like to acknowledge the dedication of the investigation team, who have worked tirelessly to achieve this result.

"This investigation has spanned several Police districts and has involved a large number of staff and effort to resolve.

"From the initial attending uniform staff to the various investigators, both from Taupō and other stations across the district, I cannot speak more highly of their dedication, professionalism and tenacity to get to this point and hold those involved to account.

"Police are unable to provide further information at this time as the matter is before the courts."