Hastings: Armed police block streets in Mayfair during search

Police at a property near the corner of Karamu Rd and Jervois St in Mayfair. Photo / Jack Riddell

Armed police swarmed the Hastings suburb of Mayfair and closed streets as part of a search for a “person of interest“.

About 2pm on Tuesday, police asked people to avoid the area due to the operation including around Jervois St, Karamu Rd North, and Warren St.

Police did not say what the person was wanted for.

“Police are conducting searches around the area, including some addresses and we ask the public who don’t have any urgent business to delay travelling in the area for the next hour,” a police statement read.

“Police are armed as a precaution, and the community will see an increased police presence.

“There is not believed to be any risk to the community.”

A witness, who did not want to be named, said she went down Karamu Rd about 2.30pm and two roads appeared to be blocked by police.

She said she could see about 10 police officers and believed she saw a police dog and handler as well.

She said a lot of people were standing around watching.

Police have been contacted for further information.

More to come.