By Peter de Graaf of RNZ
A man has been charged over the death of a woman fatally shot at a Whangārei park.
The 63-year-old was charged in a bedside court hearing at Auckland Hospital today.
He is accused of murdering Yvonne Chapman, 66, at Beach Road Reserve, in the seaside suburb of Onerahi, on Februrary 27 this year.
Gunshots were heard at about 11.10am and Chapman was found dead at the scene when police arrived.
A man was also found with serious injuries.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer said no one else was being sought.
"We are pleased to have been able to arrest someone in relation to this tragic incident.
"I would also like to thank those members of the public who provided information, which was crucial to this investigation."
The man is under police guard at Auckland Hospital and has been remanded in custody to reappear in the Whangārei District Court later this month.
RNZ understands the pair had been in a relationship.
Chapman, from Parua Bay, has been described by family members as a much-loved mother and grandmother.
In a tribute on social media one of her sons said: "She touched the lives of so many with her kindness and love, she was a precious taonga to us and will be terribly missed."
He also spoke of the family's deep sorrow, and the outpouring of love and support from friends and the wider family.
A funeral service will be held in Whangārei tomorrow morning.
The shooting, which took place near a busy playground frequented by children, has shocked Onerahi residents.
