The South Island town of Ashburton, about 85km southwest of Christchurch, is in lockdown after a man opened fire at the local Work and Income office this morning.
The New Zealand Herald is reporting that police have named local man John Henry Tully as the alleged shooter.
Canterbury District Superintendent Gary Knowles said Tully had been wearing a balaclava, was still armed and on the loose, and warned residents to stay indoors.
"The advice to local residents, if you don't have to go out, don't go out. It's not a case of a lockdown," Mr Knowles said at a press conference.
"I think people need to be prudent - if they see anything suspicious, anyone in their back yards, anyone hiding in a shed, please contact us urgently, we want to find this guy."
"I do think people are safe in Ashburton, but I think it's prudent that if you live by the river, or you have someone that's jumped your fence, or you see anything suspicious, ring us on 111," Mr Knowles said.
More to come
Share
