A man has died in police custody following a family harm incident at Hawera in Taranaki.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Police said about 11.30pm on Friday officers were called to a house, and arrested an intoxicated man for assault.
He was taken to Hawera Police Station.
During a routine check the 55-year-old man was found unresponsive, they said.
Police staff performed CPR until ambulance staff arrived, and paramedics continued CPR for more than 30 minutes, before pronouncing the man dead.
The death has been referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority and the coroner, and Worksafe has also been notified. A post mortem will be carried out to determine the cause of death
Acting Central District Commander Inspector Chris de Wattignar said support was being offered to the man's family and police staff involved in the incident.
He said it was a very sad time for all involved. "Police staff make every effort to ensure the safety of those in police custody."