Rotorua homicide: public asked to check properties
Police investigating the homicide of a Rotorua man are urging residents near the scene to check their properties for discarded items.
Thirty-seven-year-old Nicholas Patrick Mitchell was found deceased in a vehicle on Ford Road shortly before 8:30pm on Friday.
Rotorua Area Investigations Manager Senior Sergeant Mark Van Kempen said Police were working “at pace” to find the offender, and asked residents on and near Ford Road to check their properties for possible evidence.
“It’s possible the offender discarded clothing, weapons, or other items while fleeing the scene.
We encourage residents to check their yards and fencelines.
If you find something that’s out of place, please leave it alone and contact Police."
Police, supported by the Armed Offenders Squad, had executed several warrants following Mr Mitchell’s death, including one last night and another this morning on Ford Road, near where Mr Mitchell was found deceased.
“We’re pursuing a number of leads and would like to hear from anyone who could help us.”
Senior Sergeant Van Kempen said Police were still seeking any information about a white Toyota Hiace van, registration DFR734, in Ford Road or the surrounding areas on the night the victim died.
“If you have information that can help, please speak with us.”
How to contact Police:
Information reported online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “update report”, or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 251212/4041.
Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers, by calling 0800 555 111.
Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️💥❔
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Want a Cosier Christmas Night? Neighbours, Read This
Hey neighbours,
Quick question - have you given your bedroom a little Christmas love yet?
If not, you’re going to love this! We’ve put together some easy, feel-good DIY ideas to help turn your bedroom into a cozy Christmas retreat - think festive bedding, twinkling lights, handmade pillows, and warm holiday scents. Simple touches, big Christmas vibes.
Get inspired here:
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Don’t wait, neighbours - cozy nights and great deals don’t stick around for long!
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
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40.4% Yes
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34.3% Maybe?
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25.3% No
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