Three injured in shooting

Three people have been shot and injured after a fight at a house in Palmerston North early this morning.

The two women and one man, all in their 20s, were taken to Palmerston North Hospital. None had life threatening injuries, a police spokesman said.

A statement issued this morning from police said the shooting was likely to be "gang related".

Detective Sergeant Simon Harrison said: "There is some suggestion that there was a fight or dispute around midnight in the same area, although there is no indication that this incident involved a firearm."

Armed Offenders Squad members cordoned off the area around the Highbury house, shortly after neighbours reported the shots, shouting and screaming about 1.15am today, Inspector Marty Parker said.

All of the people knew each other, Mr Parker said.

Police did not know what type of gun was used, or what triggered the incident, though several people were assisting with their inquiries, Mr Parker said.

A 27 year-old man was arrested later this morning and has been charged with three counts of discharging a firearm.

He will appear in the Palmerston North District Court this afternoon.

Police are asking anyone with information to phone them on: 06 351 3600.

- NZPA and NZHERALD STAFF