Police have tonight arrested the 31-year-old man involved in the Terrace Tunnel incident.
The man climbed down safely from the pipes around 10:30pm after speaking to a family member and Police negotiators.
Wellington District Commander Inspector Chris Bensemann said Police’s number one priority in these types of situations is ensuring the safety of our officers, the public and the people involved.
“I am incredibly proud of the professionalism, patience and empathy demonstrated by the Police staff who safely resolved this difficult and sad situation.”
Over 20 staff including AOS, Police negotiators and dog teams assisted and all possible tactical options were considered in order to safely resolve the incident.
“In the end this became a matter of patience and communication and we are glad the incident was resolved without further injury," says Inspector Bensemann.
“I would also like to thank Fire and Emergency NZ, Wellington Free Ambulance, and Metlink for their assistance in hot and tiring conditions throughout the nearly 11-hour incident.
“We are aware of the major disruption this caused to traffic around the city and Police would like to again thank the public for their patience and understanding.”
The man is currently in Police custody where he will be medically assessed. No information is available at this stage on what charges he may face.
The Terrace Tunnel will re-open again shortly.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre