Masterton Police Station locked down after man presents knife at front counter

A Wairarapa police station was put into lockdown this morning after a member of the public came in and presented a knife to a front-counter employee.

The 49-year-old was eventually tasered and arrested by police, Wairarapa Area Commander Inspector Nicholas Thom said.

The man came into Masterton Police Station at 11.37am and presented the weapon at a staff member, he said.

“The staff member acted swiftly and immediately placed the station into lockdown.

“Officers attempted to speak to the man, however he continued to act in a threatening way.”

The altercation later moved outside the station, where staff continued to speak with the man.

“A short time later, the man was tasered and then arrested at the scene. He is being medically assessed by ambulance.”

“The lockdown has since been lifted and the station has reopened to the public.”

“Thankfully, no police staff were injured during the incident,” Thom said.

Charges against the man are being considered.

“I want to commend our attending staff on their quick response to this incident, resolving a tricky situation.

“We would like to thank members of the Masterton community for their co-operation and understanding while this incident unfolded.”