He said that although local roads were “shattered”, local people were “armed” and described the police response as “absolutely hopeless”.

He said the police thought it should be like this:gets tougher and puts pressure on gangs‘notorious aggressive and intimidating behaviour’.

He said since Friday locals in the area had “endured” more than 500 gang members paying their respects, including the Mongrel Mob, Filthy Few, Black Power and Headhunters.

Rotorua police district commander Inspector Herby Ngawhika said: Rotorua Daily Post The police were watching the young man’s tangi.

“Police maintain a visible presence as Ngongotahā sees an increased presence of gang members paying their respects.”

He said police were aware of the activity seen in Friday’s video and have since reiterated their clear expectations.

“This activity did not continue in the following days. “Police recognize people’s right to grieve, but we must also ensure that the law is enforced and that others in the community are safe and feel safe.”

Ngawhika said police had been in close contact with the family, who had set clear expectations for gang members planning to join the tangi.

“Police have also contacted gang leaders to convey our expectations regarding the behavior of those involved.”

A large number of police teams will be assigned tomorrow to monitor the funeral procession.

“Our expectations are very clear; We have zero tolerance for illegal behavior. “If people choose to drive badly or engage in unruly behavior, they can expect follow-up enforcement measures.”

Ngawhika said police encouraged the public to report any illegal activity on the road to them so they could take action.

If this is currently happening please call 111 or report other issues to the police by calling 105 or going online. https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105

Ngawhika said police spotted a vehicle of interest on Haupapa Street at around 11.30am on Thursday last week and signaled the driver to stop.

As the vehicle sped away, the police chased after it. It collided with another vehicle on Vaughan Road in Ōwhata.

The young man driving the getaway vehicle died at the scene, while his passenger suffered minor injuries and was taken to Rotorua Hospital.

The two people in the other vehicle were taken to Rotorua Hospital with minor injuries.

The matter was referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.

Police are looking for witnesses to the crash and are searching for dashcam footage from the area at the time.

Hundreds of commemorative articles were published on social media about the young man who lost his life.

Many described him as brash but loving and respectful. One person said: “It was a bright light when we saw his beautiful, handsome face with the cheekiest smile.”

Rotorua Daily Post He approached his family for comment.

Kelly Makiha He is a senior journalist with the Rotorua Daily Post for over 25 years, reporting primarily covering police, courts, humanitarian interests and social issues.