"Police's thoughts are with the family at this time."
The Rotorua Daily Post asked police if Mr Stephens's death would alter the investigation.
"His death does not change the status of the police investigation, which has the intention of fully ascertaining the facts relating to the events of last week.
"We have also previously stated that the Independent Police Conduct Authority has been notified and they are also investigating," a police spokeswoman said.
She said about 12 staff were currently working on the police investigation.
The Rotorua Daily Post asked if the officer who fired the shots remained off work, and whether he would be allowed to return while the investigation was under way.
"We will not discuss any of the officers involved other than to say that they continue to receive appropriate support and assistance."
An Independent Police Conduct Authority spokeswoman said it had to investigate any matter where police had caused death or serious harm.
She said it was too early to say how long the investigation would take.
"Whether he died or not we still have to investigate so his death has not changed the investigation."
A cousin of Mr Stephens had previously told the Rotorua Daily Post he was a "good person" despite sometimes getting into trouble.
"He was doing good last time I saw him, it was a while ago, he was starting to clean up, he had a job."
Meanwhile, police are still asking for anyone who was in in the area of Vaughan, Marino and Te Ngae Rds on Thursday July 14 and may have witnessed the incident to contact Rotorua police on (07) 349 9400.
Anyone with information or footage of the event is also asked to contact police to help build a more detailed picture of what happened.
In particular, police would like to speak to the young men who filmed the video of the incident that has been widely circulated.
Information can also be provided anonymously via the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
