The man has been remanded in custody, until his next appearance in December, where Ms Hughes indicated he would apply for the case to be transferred to the High Court at Rotorua.
George Taiaroa was fatally shot while operating a stop-go sign at roadworks in Atiamuri, north of Taupo.
Speaking to media outside court, Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson said the investigation had been "lengthy".
He could not talk about specifics of the arrest because it was before the court, but said the investigators on the case had been "meticulous".
"It has been lengthy. We've been patient. We've always said we'll be patient and meticulous and thorough. We've done that. We're satisfied with the arrest, but it's important to note that now it is before the courts and still to be tested there," he said.
"These sort of cases across New Zealand are very rare. It has been lengthy, but it really is an illustration that we never give up in these cases and we never will. They're always open and we're always looking for opportunities."
The possibility of further charges being laid was unlikely, he said.
There were no problems with the arrest on Wednesday, but he could not comment on whether the arrested man had been "waiting" for police to knock on his door, Mr Anderson said.
"I can't comment because I don't know what might be in his mind," he said.
He acknowledged Mr Taiaroa's family, members of the community who had come forward, police investigators on the case and their families for their support.
He spoke to Mr Taiaroa's family yesterday, but would not comment on the specifics.
"They've been extremely dignified, extremely patient, and lovely to deal with throughout, so I want to acknowledge them," he said.
"I'm not really going to comment other than to say that they're appreciative of police efforts and they have asked for privacy in regards to this matter."
