Police in armed call out

Rotorua residents were denied access to part of one of the city's main roads as police dealt with an armed offender call-out.
At 8am yesterday, police swooped on a house in Edward Payton Gr, off Pukehangi Rd, blocking access to the street and surrounding areas.
Cordons were in place on Pukehangi Rd at the intersections of Caulfield Rd and Blomfield St. If residents left the area, they were not allowed back in. Police manning the cordons advised motorists they were not allowed through due to an "armed incident".
Rotorua Police Area Commander Inspector Bruce Horne said police were called about a family violence incident at a house on Edward Payton Gr.
He said police were told residents at the house had various weapons including a firearm. An imitation pistol and various offensive weapons were seized from the house.
One resident in the street told The Daily Post she heard her neighbours having a huge argument yesterday morning.
"It was quite early when it all kicked off. We just thought they were having one of their domestics, but then, all of a sudden, all these armed police officers were outside our house."
The woman, who did not want to be identified, said the incident was "a bit scary".
"I have three young kids in the house and it is a scary thought that the police are trying to deal with someone who could be armed. I did lock all the doors and windows and made things secure so I did feel safe."
She said it was odd seeing her house surrounded by police and not knowing what was going on.
"The police ... didn't tell us what was going on. It felt like they were there for ages."
One woman who worked at a house in the street said the area was not as nice as it used to be.
"I have been working here for about five years. About a year ago, we had people move into the street who have made it a bit less desirable."
The woman, who also did not want to be identified, told The Daily Post residents were disappointed with how things had changed.
"You used to be able to leave your cars unlocked and windows open, but not any more."
She said it was still a surprise to see members of Rotorua's Armed Offenders Squad raiding a neighbouring house.
"You just don't expect it."
The incident resulted in a 34-year-old being arrested and charged with a number of weapons and drug-related charges. He is being held in police custody and is due to appear in the Rotorua District Court on Monday.
Mr Horne said it served as a reminder that, although this is a time when people are celebrating the Christmas and New Year, it is also a time when some people abuse alcohol and other drugs, which can lead to violence.
"Family violence is a serious crime that has a highly destructive impact on our communities.
"Anyone who witnesses a family violence incident, or knows that family violence is occurring, should call the police."
Mr Horne said police were still investigating and further charges could be laid.