Family speaks out about shooting victim

The family of shot man George Taiaroa have described him as a gentle giant.

Mr Taiaroa, 67, was shot dead while holding a stop-go sign on Tram Rd in the Kinleith Forest area about 3.20pm on Tuesday, after allowing a logging truck to cross a bridge.

Police have since been hunting Mr Taiaroa's killer.

In a statement released yesterday the family described Mr Taiaroa as a big man with an even bigger heart.

"He was a humble man who, despite his quiet manner, had a fantastic sense of humour.

"For his wife, children and grandchildren, he epitomised love. George had a passion for fishing, diving and rugby and he loved to travel. He was very generous, always putting everybody else before himself. His favourite pastime was being with his family."

The statement said the family were struggling to come to terms with the circumstances of Mr Taiaroa's death.

"However they are finding strength in being together, by focusing on his life, as opposed to dwelling on the manner in which he has been taken from them."

Mr Taiaroa's body was at the family home in Hamilton this morning before he started his journey to Ngatokowaru Marae in Levin where he will lie until Saturday, when he will be cremated.

"The family welcomes all those who knew George to join with them in remembering and celebrating his life."

Police investigating the fatal shooting said they have been "encouraged" by the positive response from the community.

Detective Inspector Mark Loper said dozens of calls had been made to the investigation team and there was a regular and steady flow of information, particularly around sightings of the vehicle, a blue four-wheel-drive vehicle, believed to be a Jeep Cherokee.

"It's very clear that the community are motivated to help us, and the investigation team is equally motivated in following every crumb of information until we find who is responsible for killing Mr Taiaroa.

"I must stress that just because we are receiving a wealth of information doesn't mean that we don't need more. Please do not sit back and do nothing on the belief that we have all the help we need. You could hold the key to solving this crime and bring some much needed relief to Mr Tairoa's family."

Anyone with information should contact Taupo police on (07) 378 6060. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.