Police investigate Rotorua shooting

Police say a shooting near Rotorua last night in which a middle-aged man was shot in his leg could have been deliberate.

The shooting happened at a Ngongotaha address, near Rotorua, about 7pm.

The 53-year-old victim was taken to Rotorua Hospital where he would undergo surgery today to remove shotgun pellets from his leg, Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Tony Colby said.

The man was in a stable condition, he said.

No charges had yet been laid, but the incident was thought to be suspicious, Mr Colby said.

"It appears at this stage it may not have been accidental, but that's something we're having a closer look at today."

Police would be speaking with the people involved as well as the others at the scene.

Yesterday witnesses at the address said the shooting was accidental.

Police were today examining a firearm and a vehicle that were taken from the property, Mr Colby said.

- NZPA