Attributable to Detective Sergeant Andy Livingstone:
A 31-year-old man and a 40-year-old man have been arrested and charged with murder following the death of Ryan Woodford earlier this year.
Mr Woodford died at the Adelphi Motel in Taupō on Sunday 6 March.
The 30-year-old, originally from Pahiatua, had been living at the motel in central Taupō at the time.
The two men are due to appear in Taupō District Court on Wednesday.
We continue to support the whānau of Mr Woodford and extend our deepest sympathies at this difficult time as they grieve the loss of their loved one.
Police would like to thank the community for their support and cooperation throughout the investigation.
We’d like to acknowledge the public for the information we received, which contributed and assisted our team of detectives piecing together the events of that morning.
I would also like to acknowledge the dedication of the investigation team, who have worked tirelessly to achieve this result.
This investigation has spanned several Police districts and has involved a large number of staff and effort to resolve.
From the initial attending uniform staff to the various investigators, both from Taupō and other stations across the district, I cannot speak more highly of their dedication, professionalism and tenacity to get to this point and hold those involved to account.
Police are unable to provide further information at this time as the matter is before the courts.
ENDS
NOTE TO MEDIA: Mr Woodford’s family has requested privacy at this time.
Issued by Police Media Centre