Pair arrested after gunshots reported, prompting armed police to close State Highway 1 north of Auckland

• Two people were arrested after gunshots were reported, leading to the closure of State Highway 1 near Warkworth.
• Police said the Armed Offenders Squad and dog units attended, and the incident is believed to be isolated.
• The highway reopened after 2pm, with no injuries reported and no wider risk to the public.

Two people have been arrested after a report of gunshots prompted the closure of State Highway 1 north of Auckland.

Police said officers were called to a rural property on Goatley Rd near Warkworth about 11.30am following reports a firearm was discharged.

“The Armed Offenders Squad and police dog units attended the property as a precaution,” police said.

Two people were taken into custody without incident about 2pm and charges are yet to be confirmed.

“Police would like to reassure the community this is thought to be an isolated incident involving parties known to each other, and there is not believed to be any wider risk to the public,” police said.

Armed police at the intersection of Goatley Rd and State Highway 1 near Warkworth after reports of gunshots. Photo / Alex Burton

There were no reports of any injuries, police said.

Witnesses earlier reported seeing the Armed Offenders Squad and “about 20 police cars” on the rural road this afternoon.

The police’s Eagle helicopter could also be seen hovering over the area.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said due to a “police incident” north of Warkworth township, SH1 had closed in both directions shortly before 1pm.

“Road users are advised to expect delays or avoid the area.”

FINAL UPDATE 2:20PM
SH1 is now clear and congestion has eased. ^EH https://t.co/MYmKE14GIo

— NZ Transport Agency - Auckland & Northland (@nztaaklnth) March 23, 2025

In an update at 2.20pm, NZTA said SH1 had reopened and congestion had eased.

Hato Hone St John earlier said it was called to be on standby.

One ambulance, a rapid response unit and an operations manager were at the scene, St John said.

Benjamin Plummer is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. He has worked for the Herald since 2022.