Police are reassuring Newtown residents not to be alarmed if they see specialist armed units practising in the city from the end of this week.
Members of the National Special Tactics Group (STG) will be carrying out routine training exercises at the Riddiford Building, 13 Hospital Road, Newtown, Wellington on 8, 9 and 12 November.
Commander National Tactical Groups, Superintendent Bruce Dunstan, says the training will begin at 8am and finish by 5pm.
"There will be loud noises coming from the venue, as the exercise involves the use of pyrotechnics. However, this is a normal part of our training and residents can be reassured there is no cause for alarm as it is just a training exercise."
During the operation staff will be deployed in full tactical kit and will be carrying weapons. The exercise will be overseen by Police assessors.
"This means residents also should not be concerned if they happen to see armed Police in and around the Riddiford building during these times."
Prior to the training, the Police will conduct a mail drop informing residents of the exercises.
At each training site Police cordons will be in place. Police Exercise Signage will also be erected and Safety Officers deployed in hi-visibility jackets.
ENDS
Police media contact: Ross Henderson, ph 04 470 7316 or 027 703 7329.