The shooting took place near the Norwegian team hotel in downtown Auckland, and several players reported on social media that they were safe. Several streets in Auckland were cordoned off, all ferry services into the city cancelled, while buses running through some areas of the city were on detours. Fifa issued a statement saying it had been told the shooting was not related to football operations, so the opening match could “proceed as planned”. Police assured the public there was no continuing risk and no reason not to proceed. Hipkins said he had spoken to Fifa organisers and the tournament would go ahead as planned. The city has welcomed thousands of international players and tourists for the event, which is being co-hosted by Australia. A moment of silence was observed before the match, and players wore black arm bands in honour of those who had died in the shooting. The shooting came just hours before the opening match of the ninth Women’s World Cup at Eden Park in Auckland, which saw New Zealand, the co-host, beat Norway 1-0 in an upset.

The Department of Corrections is reviewing its interactions with Reid. Hipkins said authorities were investigating how the gunman acquired a firearm and whether his behaviour suggested any red flags before the shooting.