Auckland Police still hunting armed man after shooting in Whenuapai early Monday morning

Police at the scene in Brigham Creek Road. Photo / Michael Craig

Auckland Police are still hunting the gunman who shot a man in the lower back and buttock early this morning near Whenuapai.

Police were called to the incident around 4.30am after a 33-year-old man received gunshot wounds on Brigham Creek Rd.

The man was taken to hospital in a critical condition this morning, however, police told the Herald this evening he was stable.

A spokesperson for police said they remained at the scene throughout the day and inquiries are continuing to locate the offender.

This morning, Detective Senior Sergeant Marcia Murray said initial inquiries suggested the man was shot outside an address on the road.

She urged anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area to contact police.

Traffic management staff are in place close to the Brigham Creek Rd junction with SH16.

A St John spokeswoman said they were called to an incident at 4.27am and a man was taken to Auckland Hospital in a moderate condition.

Residents have reported hearing loud bangs or gunshots, with one person saying there was a "guy running around with a shotgun".

A main road was closed for several hours following the shooting, however a section of Brigham Creek Rd is now open again.

FINAL UPDATE 8:55AM
This section of Brigham Creek Rd is NOW OPEN again. Thanks for your patience this morning. ^TP
https://t.co/sn4DfsUC4M

— Auckland Transport (@AklTransport) January 13, 2019

The road was earlier closed between the SH16 roundabout and Joseph McDonald Drive but had since reopened.

However, police remained in the area and warned motorists to expect delays.

Police were conducting a scene examination this morning and working to find the shooter.

"We are trying to establish exactly what happened in the lead-up to this incident, so anyone who might have any information is encouraged to call Waitemata Crime Squad on 09-839 0697 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111," Murray said.

FINAL UPDATE 8:55AM
This section of Brigham Creek Rd is NOW OPEN again. Thanks for your patience this morning. ^TP
https://t.co/sn4DfsUC4M

— Auckland Transport (@AklTransport) January 13, 2019