A police officer in Canterbury has received moderate injuries while responding to a family harm incident this afternoon.
File photo. Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen
Police were called to an address in Oxford around 4.30pm, after reports of a male damaging property.
The officer attempted to deescalate the situation, but the male brandished a knife, so they withdrew until backup arrived.
When backup arrived, the alleged offender approached the officers while they were still in their vehicle - attacking one through an open window.
The officer received lacerations to the arm after attempting to protect himself.
First aid was provided and the officer was transported to hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.
The alleged offender was taken into custody at the scene.
"The safety of staff is our priority, there is always a risk in policing but an assault on an officer protecting their community is an assault on the fabric of our community," Canterbury District Commander Superintendent John Price said.
"Senior police and colleagues will be supporting the injured officer and his family."
A scene examination is ongoing at the address and police are investigating the circumstances of the incident.