Kāpiti retirement village death: Elderly man charged with murder

An elderly man has been arrested in relation to the death of a 70-year-old woman in a Kāpiti retirement village this morning.

The 75-year-old man has been charged with murder and will appear in Porirua District Court tomorrow morning.

Police were called to Metlifecare Coastal Villas retirement village in Raumati Beach around 9.40am and on arrival located the dead woman.

Detective Senior Sergeant Christiaan Barnard said police were not seeking anyone else in relation to the death of the woman.

"Residents can expect to see a continued police presence in Westgate Drive until Friday, as we conduct a scene examination," Barnard said.

"As the matter is now before the Court, Police can make no further comment at this time."

Police tape surrounds a house on Westgate Drive in the Coastal Villas retirement village. Photo / Rosalie Willis

Located on Westgate Drive, the retirement village allows residents to live independently in apartments or villas on site.

Metlifecare chief executive Glen Sowry said he was unable to comment about the incident as a man is before the courts.

"I can confirm that Metlifecare staff have been assisting police with their inquiries throughout the day," he said.

"Metlifecare is deeply saddened at the death at Coastal Villas today and our thoughts are with the families of all those affected by this tragic event.

"Our priority is the wellbeing of our residents and staff. Support and assistance is being offered to all who are affected."

Earlier today, a manager at the village confirmed there had been a serious incident but would not comment any further.

Police found the body shortly after 9.40am. Photo / Rosalie Willis

A reporter at the scene this afternoon said there were a number of unmarked police cars at the location and tape barred entry to the village via a side entrance.

Neighbours said police had been outside all day but were unable to elaborate further.

Forensic investigators appeared to be at the scene, donning boiler suits before entering the building.

There is a hospital on-site and a care home for residents requiring more care.

New Zealand Aged Care Association chief executive Simon Wallace said he needed more information about the incident before he could comment to the Herald.

The Ministry of Health also did not comment.

- additional reporting Rosalie Willis

It is understood the death happened at a property on Westgate Drive, Kāpiti. Image / Google Maps