Shooting drama fails to fell town's Woodfest event

Despite the drama of two men being shot and a police search for the suspects, the small town of Kawerau managed to carry on business as usual.

As armed police swooped on homes and questioned people over the double shooting, visitors arrived to take in the sights and sounds of the town's annual Woodfest.

While residents in some parts were listening to police asking occupants to come out with their hands up, the only thing breaking the silence in town was the burst of chainsaws and children's laughter.

Members of Rotorua's Woodturning Club, June and Gordon Watkins and Maurice McManus, had driven over the hill to Kawerau yesterday morning.

"We heard about the shooting and wondered if we would be able to get to [the Woodskills competition] but it wasn't a problem," Mr Watkins said.

"We wouldn't have let that stop us coming to check out how good the workmanship is, and I have to admit it's very good."

The trio were enjoying a picnic lunch in the sunshine and were oblivious to what was going on elsewhere in the town. In the park near the chainsawing exhibition, youngsters from a Te Teko kohanga reo giggled over their fish and chips after a visit to the fire station; the shopping centre was full and people were smiling.

Kawerau Mayor Malcolm Campbell was pleased the shooting had not overshadowed the wonderful events of Woodskills. "It would have been great if it hadn't happened ... but I hope the community get behind the police and help them out," Mr Campbell said.

"I do think this incident highlights the fact we need new legislation for police to have more clout with these gangs."