Three schools are closed today in Napier as a precautionary measure while police continue negotiations with an armed offender in a Chaucer Road house.
Parents and caregivers of Napier Central School, Napier Intermediate and Nelson Park School are asked to make alternative arrangements for their children. Parents will be advised if the situation changes.
Road blocks also remain at several major intersections which will and commuters are asked to take alternative routes.
If you are heading from Taradale towards Napier, Hyderabad Road is closed. Suggested alternative route is via Battery Road and the port.
Other closures are:
Georges Drive between Kennedy Road and Hyderabad Road
Thackeray Street between Hyderabad Road and Jull Street
Carlyle Street between Hyderabad and Faraday Street
An armed police presence has remained overnight at the scene of yesterday's multiple shooting, and streets remain closed in the Chaucer Street area.
Police urge residents to stay calm. A Welfare Centre at Napier Intermediate School, staffed by Civil Defence and other agencies, is open again this morning for people requiring assistance. More than 60 people were accommodated at motels overnight.
The two wounded police officers and a local resident are in a critical condition in Hawke's Bay regional hospital's intensive care unit.
Ends
Released by:
Kris McGehan 027 2223638
Kaye Calder 027 241 6305