Whangārei creek motorcyclist homicide case

The story so far

A motorcyclist was found dead in a creek near Otaika Valley Road in Whangārei on the morning of Wednesday 29 January, and his motorcycle was left on the roadside. State Highway 15 was closed between Otaika and Maungatapere while police investigated. Police believe the man was shot in a layby on the highway between 7pm and 11pm on 28 January.^{29, 30 Jan 2025; 1, 2 Feb 2025} Police confirmed that the motorcyclist had been shot and launched a homicide investigation. Investigators asked motorists who were in the area, especially those with dashcam or video footage, to come forward.^{30 Jan 2025; 1, 2 Feb 2025} Police have publicly identified the 18-year-old motorcyclist. A 20-year-old man has since been charged with murder with a firearm.^{2, 4 Feb 2025}

Latest

The 20-year-old man appeared in Whangārei District Court charged with murder and was remanded in custody.^{4 Feb 2025}

Key moments

1. 29 Jan 2025Motorcyclist found dead in Whangārei creek; SH15 closed while police investigate.
2. 30 Jan 2025Police launch homicide investigation and say the man was killed in a nearby layby.
3. 1 Feb 2025Police confirm the motorcyclist was shot and appeal for dashcam or video footage.
4. 1 Feb 2025Police say the man was shot in a layby, and detectives review dashcam footage.
5. 2 Feb 2025Police publicly identify the 18-year-old motorcyclist and say the shooting happened on SH15.
6. 4 Feb 2025A 20-year-old man is charged with murder with a firearm and remanded in custody.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.