Man shot in New Plymouth flown to Waikato in a serious condition

The Westpac Helicopter flew the injured man to hospital. Photo / File

A man alleged to have shot another man in the leg in New Plymouth is to appear in court today.

Armed police were called to Marama Cres, Spotswood, about 5pm yesterday after shots were fired.

Police arrested a 43-year-old late last night. He will appear in the New Plymouth District Court this morning charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, committing a dangerous act with intent to cause GHB, two charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and driving while disqualified.

The victim was initially taken to Taranaki Base Hospital, but flown to Waikato Hospital where he was this morning in a serious condition in the high-dependency unit.

Police are not looking for anyone else in relation to the shooting.

Residents told Fairfax children were playing in the street at the time and witnesses tried to disarm the alleged gunman.

Two women were seen tending the injured man in the front yard of a home.

Another unnamed resident told Fairfax the shooting appeared to be the result of growing tensions between the two men, believed to live in the same street.