Emergency services were called to FreshChoice, after a report a gun was fired at a car as it pulled out of the car park, on Saturday afternoon., 22 March, 2025. Photo: Supplied/ Google Maps
- The man who died in a shooting in South Wairarapa over the weekend was 23-year-old Doreion Peri Ropata Hard.
- His mother says her "heart is broken" after the death.
- Two men will appear in the Wellington District Court today charged with murder.
The mother of a man who was killed in a shooting in South Wairarapa over the weekend says her "heart is broken".
23-year-old Doreion Peri Ropata Hard was found in a vehicle in Carterton with a gunshot wound, which he later died from.
The discovery came following a report of a shot or shots fired at a vehicle as it was driven out of the Fresh Choice supermarket in nearby Featherston, sending emergency services rushing to the site, about 4pm on Saturday.
Two men will appear in the Wellington District Court on Monday, charged with murder after the shooting.
In an obituary for the 23-year-old man it said he was a loved partner, father of two, son and stepson.
The tribute also said he was a loved brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to many.
His mother Selena said he "left far too early".
"You were an amazing intelligent, loving, funny person… I was so proud of you… I only saw the best in you! I was so grateful to be your Mother."
The obituary said funeral details were to be advised.
She said his siblings were deeply saddened by his death too.
The family declined to speak to RNZ.
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