Police seek information in connection with Northland homicide investigation

Police are seeking information on a mountain bike in connection with a homicide investigation in the Far North.

A 26-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a woman who police have named as Tārati (Dorothy) Buckley, 76, of Ōpononi.

Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston said the investigation team were still seeking information in the case.

Police have released a photo of the alleged offender at a Maungatapere GAS petrol station and are trying to locate the dark red mountain bike the man was seen riding between Maungatapere and Dargaville, on the morning of 1 June.

"We have not located this mountain bike, and I'm asking anyone who might know where this bike is to contact us," Johnston said.

Police attended Ounuwhao Road, near Dargaville, after 9.10am where Buckley's Toyota RAV4 was found burnt out.

The alleged offender was located by police at 2.06pm, walking along State Highway 14 near Dargaville.

"He was wearing the same clothing as is seen in the CCTV image," Johnston said.

Police want to hear from anyone who saw the man riding the bike in the area on Monday, particularly along State Highway 14.

"We are also seeking any information on his movements through the morning and into the early afternoon."

Police ask anyone who may have picked up a dark red mountain bike from the road side to get in touch either online or by calling 105 and quoting reference number 260601/3972. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 26-year-old man charged with Tārati Buckley's murder has been remanded in custody to reappear in the Whangārei High Court on 19 June 2026.

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