Ruatiti farm killings: Dog club members rescue pets under armed police guard

“Yesterday was a day with so many different emotions one would think the well was dry. But no, the tears just keep flowing,” the post stated.

Trina Cole was a well-known breeder of Mastiff’s. Photo / Supplied

The post said the couple had “loved fiercely” their dogs.

“This was no easy task and definitely not a mission for the faint hearted, but as experienced Neapolitan mastiff owners and also knowing the dogs, we managed the task given to us with some highs and devastating lows out of our control.

“I want to thank the armed… [police] who were watching over us for the respect they showed as we stood back and assessed the situation in front of us, before tackling the massive task, and for allowing us to take our time with each and every dog.”

The post said the move was also aimed at giving police access to other parts of the property they hadn’t previously been able to get to.

“We will do our best to honour T’s dream by loving her dogs as she did, and continuing on with her breeding plan.”

Brendon Cole and his partner Trina Cole. Photo / Supplied

Those who knew Mitchell Cole have also posted on social media their shock that the young man was being sought in connection to the double homicide.

“This young man worked for us during the Christchurch earthquake demolition. Please don’t jump to conclusions let the police do there mahi and let the whole investigation run its course then and only then comment,” an ex-associate wrote.

Another added: “This is a shock to see… I met him and hung out with him a fair bit a few years ago , he was a good guy.”

Police have named Mitchell Cole, 29, as the person of interest following the deaths of Brendon and Trina, who were shot and left in the driveway of their rural Ruatiti farm.

Their bodies were discovered a few days later.

Mitchell Cole is an accomplished hunter, as pictured. Photo / Supplied

Mitchell Cole’s Facebook profile shows he is an accomplished hunter and his several pictures of him hunting.

He is described as a keen hunter who has considerable knowledge of the local area.

The deaths of Brendon and Trina Cole – who celebrated her birthday last month – have shocked the small rural community in the central North Island.

A homicide investigation has been launched following the deaths of two people in Ruatiti near Whanganui National Park. Image / Google Maps

The couple were said to be hardworking sheep farmers and respected members of the local area.

Extra police have been brought into the area to assist with the operation, as has the police helicopter.

Police said Mitchell Cole should not be approached and if the public spot him, to call 111.

“Police will pursue every lead available to us in relation to this investigation and are working to locate Cole as quickly as possible,” Detective Inspector Gerard Bouterey, Field Crime Manager, Central District CIB said.

Police searching for Mitchell Cole (inset) who is being sought in relation to the killing of his father and stepmother are appealing for any information on this quad bike and trailer found in Ruatiti. New Zealand Herald composite photo

“A warrant for his arrest has also been issued, for unlawful possession of firearms.”

The area police are focusing on is very remote, with a number of huts, lodges, and camps.

Police have asked hunters to keep out of the search area.

Police hunting Mitchell Cole are also trying to locate the owner of this trailer and quad bike. Photo / Supplied

“They are currently parked on Murumuru Road in an area known locally as the airstrip.

“If this quad and trailer are yours, or you know who they belong to, please tell us.”