Police said the Armed Offenders Squad was called to assist as a precautionary measure. Photo: Cole Eastham-Farrelly/RNZ
A man is in a serious condition after he was shot by police in Whanganui after attacking officers and a police dog.
Police said officers were patrolling with a police dog about 3.55am when they came across a man acting suspiciously outside an address on Talbot Street in Whanganui East.
They said he ran to the rear of a property, and the officers followed him, before he then turned and charged at police staff.
Central District Commander Superintendent Scott Fraser said the man refused to comply with officers as they attempted to take him into custody, and continued to assault them.
A series of tactical options, including sponge rounds, Taser, and OC spray, were used, but police said they had no effect and the man's behaviour kept escalating.
Fraser said the man attacked and injured the police dog and assaulted their staff, and was subsequently shot by police.
The man is in a serious condition undergoing surgery.
The Armed Offenders Squad was called to assist as a precautionary measure, both at the hospital and at the Talbot Street address.
Fraser said having to use a firearm was the last thing any police officer wanted to do.
"In this instance, our officers had no other option available."
Locals in Whanganui East should expect to see an increased police presence in the area on Tuesday, as a scene examination continues.
The Independent Police Conduct Authority will be notified, and a Critical Incident Investigation is underway.
Support is being offered to the man's family, and to the officers involved.