Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi
Two police vehicles have been damaged after a fleeing driver allegedly rammed into them.
The incident in Havelock North in Hawke's Bay on Wednesday morning also saw nearby schools forced into lockdown.
In a statement, police said officers signalled for a vehicle to stop at about 10am in Camberley, Hastings.
They wanted to speak to the driver about a burglary, but the driver fled and a chase began.
"During the incident, the driver allegedly rammed two police vehicles," police said,
"He then abandoned the vehicle in Gardiner Place, Havelock North, and fled on foot, allegedly in possession of a firearm."
Police put cordons in place and told nearby schools to go into lockdown as a precaution.
About 10.45am, a 43-year-old man was taken into custody.
"A firearm has been recovered.
"Schools have been advised and have returned to their normal day, and police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident."
Charges are still being considered, police said.