Police can confirm that they located, yesterday, what they believe to be the firearm used in Monday's shooting in Ashburton and investigations into the incident are continuing.

Police would like to thank the people of Ashburton for coming forward with information and appeal for anyone else who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

Police reiterate that the victim's families do not want any contact from media and they will not be issuing any statements at this time. This should not be taken as a justification to contact the families directly as has been indicated by some media.

Police would view any such approach at this time as both insensitive and a serious breach of the families wishes and rights to privacy.

Anyone with information relating to this incident can contact Ashburton Police on (03) 307 8411.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Source: New Zealand Police.