Ponsonby bar and restaurant owners are working together to ramp up security following a fatal shooting on Sunday.
A man was found dead outside an address on the Central Auckland street after “reports of a firearm being discharged”.
Police have since released images of an “extremely dangerous” man investigators are seeking after the incident.
Speaking to 1News today, Ponsonby Social Club owner Bobby Mukai said in his 24 years working in Ponsonby, he’s never seen something like this happen.
“We all just want the community to feel safe.”
Mukai said he’s been in talks with owners from Chapel, Blue Breeze Inn, Elmos, and SPQR.
“We’ve been talking about all chipping in over the next few weeks for some extra security to patrol the area a little bit more. The police have also been in touch to say they’re going to do a bit more for us as well.”
“We’re just going to get us all together because you know, Ponsonby is usually really calm and we want people to come and enjoy themselves and have nice dinners, sit at the tables outside and not have to feel scared.”
He said the situation is “scary and a bit sad” and local business owners are working to keep everybody safe.
Detective Inspector Chris Barry said yesterday the man being sought had been turned away from a bar before the shooting as it was closing.
“He was seen lingering on Ponsonby Rd towards the Richmond Road end.”
A group of four people, including the victim, exited a parked car on Ponsonby Rd at around 10.15pm and walked in the man’s direction, Barry said.
“Inquiries so far indicate multiple shots were discharged.
“Police have now identified the man as the offender”.
The man is described as being of large build, with dark hair and facial hair, and a large tattoo on his forearm.
Investigators now want the public’s help to identify him but warn he is considered “extremely dangerous” and should not be approached.