Motueka school in lockdown as armed police hunt gunman

Jahdai Brice Kennard

A Motueka school was in lockdown this afternoon as armed police hunt a man who is alleged to have presented a firearm at a group of people.

The man reportedly presented the firearm about midday at Thorpes Bush in Motueka. No shots were fired and the man then left in a vehicle, police said.

Police have named the suspect as Jahdai Brice Kennard, aged 27, of Motueka.

Kennard is Maori, about 179cm tall, and of medium build.

Police said he was considered dangerous and should not be approached.

Anyone who has seen him or has information is asked to call 111 immediately.

Police advised members of the public that they could expect a heavy police presence in and around Motueka until Kennard was found.

Motueka High School was also asked to keep students within the school as a precaution, police said.

Officers, including members of the Armed Offenders Squad, were working together to locate the man, police said.