Five arrested after late night shooting outside Palmerston North hotel

Several shots were fired at or near a group of men near the Palmerston North hotel.
Several shots were fired at or near a group of men near the Palmerston North hotel. Photo credit: Getty Images

Five people have been arrested and charged following a shooting in Palmerston North over the weekend.   

The shooting took place at around 1am outside a hotel on Rangitikei Street on Sunday, near King Street.  

"Our enquiries have established that a number of shots were discharged at or near a group of men outside the bar," Detective Sergeant Dave Wilson said.   

"It was sheer luck that no one was injured," Det Sgt Wilson added.    

Police stopped a group of men nearby where they located two .22 calibre firearms inside their vehicle.  

However, officers believe the two shotguns discovered are not the same ones that were used at the hotel.   

Five people were arrested and charged with unlawful possession of firearms and will appear in the Palmerston North District Court this week.  

"We are continuing to investigate the incident near the hotel and are working to identify those who were involved," Wilson said. 

"Police are committed to ensuring patrons can enjoy the central city especially during the festive season."  

Anyone with information is urged to call 105 quoting file number 231203/5327.