A man was unloading a canon-type firearm from his ute when he was shot and killed in Northland yesterday.
Police said Derek Allan Kelly, 74, was killed when the firearm accidentally discharged as he was taking it off the tray of his ute at an address in Mahuta, Kaipara.
Police and ambulance were called to the scene about 4.30pm yesterday.
The Fire Service was called to ensure the canon-like firearm was made safe.
The death has been referred to the coroner.
