Man charged with murder of former rugby representative Star Sami
Thursday 24 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Auckland City CIB
A 23-year-old man has been charged with the murder of 21-year-old Star Sami in Auckland. Sami, a former New Zealand under-18s Sevens representative, died from injuries sustained during a violent confrontation in Blockhouse Bay last month.
Key facts
3 facts
- Star Sami died following a stabbing on 22 August in Blockhouse Bay
- The homicide investigation is named Operation Falconer
- Search warrants were executed in Avondale and Massey
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
A 23-year-old man has been charged with the murder of 21-year-old Star Fetu Peretiso Sami. The arrest occurred in Massey on Thursday morning following simultaneous search warrants in Avondale and Massey. The suspect was taken to Mount Roskill Police Station for an interview and was expected to appear in the Auckland District Court that afternoon.
The charge follows a month-long homicide investigation known as Operation Falconer. Mr Sami was critically wounded during a violent confrontation on Holbrook St in Blockhouse Bay on 22 August. He was stabbed, driven to a bus stop, and subsequently died in hospital following emergency surgery the next day.
Mr Sami was a former Kelston Boys’ High School student and played for the Massey Premier Rugby team. He also represented the New Zealand under-18s Sevens team, which won the World School Sevens in 2022.
While police previously confirmed Mr Sami was a member of the Rebels gang, they stated there is no evidence his death was gang motivated. Although police are not currently seeking anyone else, the investigation remains ongoing as officers continue to speak with witnesses.
Where reports differ
- One report describes the victim as a 21-year-old, while another provides his full name, Star Fetu Peretiso Sami
Compiled from reports by 1News and Stuff.
