9 Oct 2023

80-year-old man charged with murder over Mount Maunganui death

4:50 pm on 9 October 2023
A police car

Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Metlifecare said it is providing support to residents at its Mt Maunganui retirement village, after John Alfred Salter, 80, has been charged with murdering his wife Jean Salter, 78.

Police were called to the retirement village just before 7pm on Sunday, and found the body of the woman.

Metlifecare said the situation was "extremely sad".

"We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the individuals involved. We are providing support to our other residents and staff who knew them and have engaged Victim Support to assist."

Salter appeared in Tauranga District Court this afternoon, but did not enter a plea.

He was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on 1 November.