Third person sought over shooting at Wellington beach

File photo / NZ Herald

Police are searching for a third person in connection with an Easter Monday shooting on a Wellington beach.

Police are continuing the investigation into the incident in which 55-year-old Tulo Tuala was shot at Makara beach.

Two men have been charged with causing grievous bodily harm.

"Yesterday afternoon we were able to interview the victim who is still in hospital and we now have a better understanding of the events that took place early Monday morning," Detective Senior Sergeant John van den Heuvel said today.

"In addition to the two men arrested on the day, it's clear a third person is involved and our investigation team is focused on identifying who this is."

Today five police divers and 10 search staff returned to Makara beach on the southwest coastline to continue the search for the shotgun used in the shooting.

The search would primarily focus on the Makara stream and roadside area, Mr van den Heuvel said.

"Eight investigators remain working on the case and the arrested men are likely to face further serious charges when they next appear in the Wellington District Court on 14 May.

"The victim sustained a serious gun shot wound and his recovery will no doubt be very lengthy. He's expected to remain in hospital for at least another week."

Although the "grisly crime" was committed on their doorstep, Mr van den Heuvel wanted to reassure Makara residents and visitors to the beach they could feel safe in the area.

"It's apparent this was a one-off event and none of the people involved are from the Makara community or nearby areas."