Funeral procession for Mongrel Mob gang member Nicholas ‘White Boy’ Berkland spark police warning

Patched gang members sparked a police turnout this morning after travelling through Porirua to farewell a Mongrel Mob member whose death was being treated as “unexplained” last week.

Loved ones this morning poured out tributes to Nicholas Berkland ahead of his gang funeral procession, telling him to “ride hard”.

Gang members travelled through the city shortly after 9am. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Police officers were stationed at roundabouts and streets throughout the area the procession was going through. Groups of gang members in cars and motorcycles travelled through the city shortly after 9am.

Police had earlier warned the procession for Berkland could see a large number of gang members moving through the Porirua region from about 8am.

Berkland - known as “White Boy” - is understood to have died in a medical incident last week in Tawa.

Nick Berkland will be farewelled in Porirua today.

Emergency services were called to a Tremewan St address shortly before midnight on January 24.

Several patched gang members were seen outside the property as police blocked access last Wednesday morning, Stuff reported.

At the time police said the death was being treated as unexplained, but Berkland is now believed to have died from a medical event.

Berkland’s daughter posted on Facebook: “Everyone who knew and loved Dad will be more then welcome to come and pay your respects (sic).”

She said Berkland was being taken to “the pad” for a night before the funeral.

“We appreciate and are thankful for all the aroha we have received from everyone who loved, met, and cared about Dad.”

She said last week that his tangi would be at 10am today at the Whenua Tapu crematorium and the convoy would start at a Wakefield Terrace address between 8am and 8.30am.

Today more loved ones were posting on Facebook about Berkland, sharing their affection for him and his family.

“Ur [sic] final ride is the hardest of them all,” said one.

Police warned of a gang presence in Porirua this morning. Photo / Mark Mitchell

“Ride hard in paradise Uncle Nick one of a kind,” said another.

“Just know your papa was one of a kind and the best big brother figure anyone could ask for,” one person told Berkland’s daughter.

“He definitely ticked all the boxes . . . Over 40yrs he was a part of our whānau and forever more in eternity.”

Another post from a neighbour said: “You always give us a wave and a smile everytime you sees us [sic]. Fly High with the angels Nick.”

Kāpiti-Mana relieving Area Commander Simon de Wit said police are monitoring the situation.

“Motorists can expect to see a large number of gang members and associates travelling around the region.

“Police will have a visible presence around Whenua Tapu Cemetery and surrounding areas.

“We urge all those travelling on our roads to not act in a way that puts other road users at risk and to expect delays.”

He said any unlawful behaviour will be investigated and followed up with enforcement action.

Police can be seen stationed throughout the area. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Anyone concerned about their safety in regards to the group or who witnesses any illegal behaviour is asked to call 111 immediately.

To report, or send in any footage of the group causing concern, you are able to file a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, call Police on 105.

To report anonymously via Crime Stoppers call 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-nz.org