Police are relieved that the Napier siege has been resolved with no further loss of life or injury to police staff or members of the public.
The body of the offender was found in the master bedroom of the house just after midday today. No-one was injured during the entry to the house and no shots were fired. Police believe the body is that of Jan Molenaar (51) but he has yet to be formally identified.
Superintendent Sam Hoyle, Eastern District Commander, said the Chaucer Road house is still under police control. Incendiary devices were found at the property and there is still a degree of risk to police and specialist groups at the scene, and to members of the public.
"It will take some time for police to finish searching the house - this could take up to two days. While some people will be able to return to their homes today, some people will not. We ask people to be patient while we work through the crimescene."
Cordons remain in place but they will be reviewed throughout the afternoon.
Mr Hoyle said police were unable to say how or when the offender died, or what injuries he may have sustained. The body is expected to remain in the house until tomorrow. Police were also unable to say what weapons were found in the house.
"A coronial investigation is underway and we cannot provide details at this time about how the offender died. That is for the coroner to determine."
Investigations into the deaths of the offender and Senior Constable Len Snee are also in progress.
"These will be long and complicated investigations" he said. "We appreciate that people want answers quickly about what happened and why. The reality is that the investigation team must be given time to do a thorough job."
Mr Hoyle said police thank the people of Napier for their patience, tolerance and understanding during this difficult time.
"This has been an unprecedented event in our city. It has caused fear and tension and we know that people have been scared and concerned. We are hugely grateful for the support we have received and the hard work that many people have done in relation to this incident.
"There have been hundreds of volunteers who have helped out in various domains to keep the city running. We thank the incredible generosity and kindness shown by numerous people. It is a sign of a community in good health when everyone pulls together like this.
"We also thank the other agencies and emergency services who have assisted Police during this protracted and difficult event."
The resolution of this incident will be welcome news to the families of the officers and the member of the public who was wounded when he went to the aid of the officers.
"Our thoughts remain with them and we continue to ask media to respect their privacy at this time." said Mr Hoyle.
Police have released the name of the civilian who was shot during Thursday's shooting. He was Leonard Holmwood, 44 of Napier. Mr Holmwood was known to Molenaar.
The families of all the shooting victims have asked for their privacy to be respected.
Ends
Contacts:
Kris McGehan 027 222 3638
Kaye Calder 027 241 6305
Grant Ogilvie 027 236 9974