Lockdown lifted for Auckland school after police responded to reports of firearms incident

An Auckland primary school and early childhood education centre are out of lockdown after emergency services responded to reports of gunshots.

Huapai School was in emergency lockdown while police investigated an address on Main Rd, Huapai following a reported firearms incident at a residential address.

Police said they received reports of gunshots at around 10.22am.

Armed police on Trigg Rd, Huapai, in response to reports of gunshots on Main Rd. Photo / Michael Craig

There have been no reports of injuries.

Huapai School said it was advised by the Ministry of Education to go into an emergency lockdown just before 11.30am.

Around 1.30pm Huapai School deputy principal Maree Lloyd said lockdown was lifted.

“We are now out of Emergency lockdown and all students, staff and persons onsite are safely accounted for.

“Everyone did extremely well and responded to instructions. The safety of your child was our priority.

“A notice will be going out to parents/caregivers tonight to provide some more information about what has occurred today and about our emergency lockdown procedures.

“If you wish to collect your child/ren earlier than 3pm today, please go to the front office where the procedure will be outlined. We thank you for your cooperation with this, as your child’s safety continues to be our priority.

“I would like to personally thank you for your support during this difficult time.”

The police response later moved to Beach Haven on the North Shore, which saw armed officers blocking off a street and Beach Haven Primary School placed into lockdown.

Police confirmed the two incidents were linked.

Huapai School in west Auckland. Photo / Supplied

Kindy Kids Huapai was also instructed by the Ministry of Education to go into lockdown.

A staff member said an official had contacted the preschool to take this line of action as an emergency incident unfolded in the area.

She couldn’t see any emergency services in the area, but told the Herald all the children were safe.

Jason Armistead witnessed the police response on Main Rd from Huapai Domain. Armed police used a battering ram to get into the house, he said.

Police dog handlers could be seen on neighbouring Trigg Rd.

- More to come