Police say a recent spate of homicides appear to be down to the usual issues of organised crime, gangs and family harm.  

Since the start of August, Police have launched 11 homicide investigations.  

One has since been deemed not a homicide and has been referred to the coroner.  

Police Assistant Commissioner for Auckland and Northland Sam Hoyle told Mike Hosking it's very rare someone is murdered by a complete stranger. 

“There’s relationships – whether they’re through organised crime, familial relationships, neighbours – it is almost unheard of where a complete stranger is killed in a New Zealand context.” 

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