CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand — The city of Christchurch is reeling following the fatal police shooting of Te Arohanui Pohio, 53, during a late-night incident on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at a Kāinga Ora property on Clyde Road in Bryndwr.
Police say officers were dispatched to the address shortly before 11 p.m. after receiving reports of a man armed with a knife, allegedly threatening self-harm and endangering his partner. Upon arrival, officers encountered the man, described as wielding a large hunting knife. Superintendent Tony Hill stated the man advanced toward officers and was shot after being assessed as posing an immediate threat. He was critically injured and remains in hospital following surgery.
Moments later, Pohio reportedly picked up the knife and advanced toward officers, despite repeated verbal commands to drop the weapon. An officer discharged their firearm, fatally wounding her. First aid was rendered immediately, but she died at the scene.
Police have confirmed that the case is being treated as a critical incident. A post-mortem has been completed, and the matter will be referred to the Coroner. The Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) will also investigate, as is standard procedure in police shootings.
The incident has sparked strong emotions among local residents. Neighbours told reporters they heard two gunshots within moments of each other, describing the scene as chaotic and deeply distressing. Some questioned whether alternative approaches could have prevented the fatal outcome, noting that police had been called to the address several times in recent years for domestic incidents. One resident expressed frustration, saying: “Just ring me, I’ll come and de-escalate it. At least she would have lived.”
Pohio, whose name means “the greatest love” in te reo Māori, was known to friends and family as a woman of strength, humour, and loyalty. She had a deep cultural connection to her heritage and was devoted to her whānau. Her loved ones have requested privacy as they grieve.
Superintendent Hill said police are providing support to the affected families and to the officers involved, acknowledging the incident as “extremely distressing” for everyone. Funeral arrangements for Pohio are expected to be announced in the coming days.