Ray Chung assault allegation: Police delay CCTV footage release

Video: The controversy surrounding Ray Chung comes as scrutiny grows over the political networks shaping Wellington’s election. (Supplied / thisquality / Paul the Other One / Quiet Pact Network Limited partnership content)

Police have extended the deadline to release CCTV footage related to an alleged altercation outside 1841 Bar and Restaurant in Johnsonville on 11 July, involving Wellington City Mayoral Candidate Ray Chung.

In a response provided to thisquality under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act, Wellington City Council said police interviewed the complainant who was allegedly assaulted by Chung and reviewed CCTV footage before concluding the matter was “not as reported.”

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The Council confirmed it holds no footage of the incident outside the bar and it did not rule out the assault allegation.

The complainant alleged they were punched and struck with a metal door after arriving at what they believed was a public campaign meeting at the venue. They told police about cameras they believed had captured the altercation.

Image: Ray Chung organised a constituents meeting on his Facebook page under the events section at 1841 Bar & Restaurant in Johnsonville, Wellington. Dated 11 July, 2025. (Supplied / Facebook)

The meeting was described as a small private function for supporters, despite belief it was advertised as a public event. That confusion has raised questions about transparency in Chung’s campaign activity.

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Police were initially expected to provide the requested CCTV footage to thisquality on or before 13 October. However, that deadline has now been pushed back to early November.

A police spokesperson confirmed the extension in correspondence with thisquality, stating: “We are writing to notify you of an extension of the time to make our decision [to early November]. This extension is necessary because consultations to make a decision on your request are such that a proper response cannot reasonably be made within the original limit.”

Image: 1841 Bar Restaurant in Johnsonville, Wellington. The venue offers weekly entertainment, live sports viewing, and gaming options. (Supplied)

The footage or officer notes of the ramifications is considered a key piece of evidence in clarifying the events outside the Johnsonville establishment. It remains unclear whether the delay is linked to the complexity of the request or the upcoming local election, except further consultations are needed.

Independent Together and lobby group Better Wellington did not respond to requests for comment on the allegation.

Outgoing Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau and fellow Mayoral Candidate Andrew Little did not respond to requests for comment.

The release of the footage will now be awaited in early November. thisquality will publish any new findings if the material becomes available.

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