Relief at murder charge in stop-go shooting

George Taiaroa was shot and killed in 2013 while working on a road gang.

The former employers of George Taiaroa are pleased a man has been charged with his murder -- more than two-and-a-half years after he was fatally shot while working with a road crew.

HEB Construction chief executive Derrick Adams, who is based in Auckland, said he was pleased the police had kept a close eye on the case.

"We are delighted the police have got to this stage and I'm sure it's a relief for his family and his fellow workers," Mr Adams said.

A 45 year-old man was arrested and charged with murder yesterday in relation to the death of Mr Taiaroa.

Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson speaks to the media after Mr Taiaroa's death. Photo / File

He was arrested without incident at an address in Stratford and will appear in New Plymouth District Court today.

Mr Taiaroa, 67, was shot dead on March 19, 2013 while operating a stop-go sign on Tram Rd in Atiamuri, about 45km north of Taupo.

There is still a great deal of work ahead of us as we enter into another significant phase in the investigation.

Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson

Police working on the case had previously stressed their determination to bring someone to justice for Mr Taiaroa's death.

"I've stated on a number of occasions in the last couple of years that the passing of time doesn't lower our resolve; it just increases our determination. The professionalism and commitment of the team investigating Mr Taiaroa's death has not wavered for a second, and it is their determination and attention to detail that has got us to this point," Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson said in a statement yesterday.

"There is still a great deal of work ahead of us as we enter into another significant phase in the investigation, and to protect the integrity of those legal proceedings it's not appropriate for me to elaborate further on today's development," he said.

Mr Anderson also acknowledged Mr Taiaroa's whanau.

"They have been kept informed regularly and they have shown great patience, strength and dignity throughout."

Police commissioner Mike Bush praised the investigation team on social media yesterday, tweeting: "Thanks to the committed work of our Bay of Plenty staff that led to today's arrest in the George Taiaroa case."

Taiaroa shooting

March 19, 2013: George Taiaroa is fatally shot while operating a stop-go sign at roadworks in Atiamuri about 45km north of Taupo. The shooting happened at 3.10pm, about 25 minutes after Mr Taiaroa returned to his position at the western end of the bridge after a lunch break.

Yesterday: A 45-year-old is arrested in Stratford and charged with murder.