Family seeks judicial review of investigation into Kaoss Price shooting
Monday 7 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated 
The family of Kaoss Price is seeking a judicial review of the Independent Police Conduct Authority's investigation into his 2022 fatal shooting. The 22-year-old was unarmed when he was shot by police. The challenge follows a decision by police not to prosecute the officer involved.
Key facts
4 facts
- Kaoss Price was a 22-year-old unarmed man killed in April 2022
- The shooting occurred on State Highway 3 between New Plymouth and Waitara
- The IPCA found the fatal shot was unjustified and used excessive force
- The judicial review is being heard at the High Court in Wellington
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
The family of Kaoss Price is seeking a judicial review in the High Court at Wellington regarding the decision not to prosecute police officers involved in his April 2022 death. Price, a 22-year-old unarmed man, was fatally shot on State Highway 3 between New Plymouth and Waitara after ramming a police car and attempting to steal vehicles. The family's legal team is asking for the decision to be reconsidered and for a declaration that the decision not to prosecute was unlawful.
In November 2024, the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) found the fatal shot used excessive force and was unjustified. The IPCA also determined that Officer A's claim that Price was reaching for a weapon was "implausible and improbable". Despite these findings, no charges were laid in relation to the death.
Lawyer Christopher Stevenson KC argued that Officer A shot Price "point blank in the chest" while the young man was attempting to hijack another vehicle. Stevenson noted that the officer was not interviewed until nearly two weeks after the incident and was referred to as "mate" 14 times during the process. He further stated that the officer was treated as a witness rather than a suspect.
The legal challenge also addresses the 15-month delay taken by police to reach the decision not to prosecute. Stevenson described this delay as "egregious and without reasons". Additionally, the family is seeking damages under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.
Where reports differ
- One report identifies the mother as Jules Hana, while another identifies her as Jillian Hana
Compiled from reports by The Post, NZ Herald and Otago Daily Times.