Police updates on crimes and investigations for 12 July 2025.
Name release correction – fatal crash, Seddon
The man who died in a fatal crash in Seddon on 18 June 2025 has been named. An earlier press release from police contained spelling errors.
He was 50-year-old Andres Bonifacio Hernan Vergara Oportot, from Blenheim.
“Our sincere apologies to anyone affected by this error”, said police in a statement.
Fatal crash, SH1, Tirau
Police can confirm one person has died in a crash involving a car and truck on State Highway 1, near Tīrau on Friday.
Emergency services were called to the scene, between Webster Road and State Highway 5, about 4pm.
Fatal crash, SH3, Te Mapara
Police can confirm one person has died following a crash on State Highway 3, Te Mapara on Friday.
The two-vehicle crash was reported at around 11:30am.
The Serious Crash Unit attended and have completed a scene examination.
State Highway 3 has since re-opened.
Fatal crash, Hornby
Police can confirm one person has died following a crash in Hornby on Friday evening.
The single vehicle crash on Waterloo Road was reported just before 5pm.
Kumeu serious crash: Name release
Police can now formally release the name of the young person who died in a crash near Kumeū on 27 June.
He was Elliot Ellis New, aged 16, of Whangamatā who was a passenger in the vehicle.
Several investigations remain ongoing into the circumstances of the crash which occurred on Coatesville-Riverhead Highway at 8.20pm.
“Our thoughts remain with Elliot’s family after the tragedy that has unfolded,” Waitematā District Commander, Superintendent Naila Hassan says.
“The investigation team will continue to keep all the families updated as these investigations make progress.
“Police are focused on running a comprehensive investigation and it will take time for this important process to be completed.”
