One dead in BOP police shooting

Police were forced to shoot a person who had fired upon them during a pursuit on Thursday night. Photos: Daniel Hines/SunLive.

State Highway 2 in Tauranga remains closed between Waihi Road off ramp and Cameron Road this morning, following the fatal police shooting last night.

Takitimu Drive has reopened.

The events unfolded when police attempted to stop a vehicle at 7.46pm on Carmichael Road in Tauranga, in relation to the ongoing double-homicide enquiry.

The vehicle failed to stop and a firearm was shot at police, says a police spokesperson.

The vehicle fled toward the CBD, and continued to fire shots at police.

"The vehicle then stopped and an occupant continued to discharge the firearm.

"Police returned fire and in the exchange the offender was fatally wounded.

"The Armed Offenders Squad is in attendance and there is no further risk to the public."

Today's closures are expected to remain in place well into the day, says the NZTA.

Detours are in place and are as follows:

City-bound traffic from Bethlehem should turn left onto Waihi Road, turn left onto SH2 ramp for Takatimu Drive north or continue on Waihi Road and turn right onto Cameron Rd for SH29A south.

East-bound traffic should turn right onto Waihi Road from Cambridge Road, turn left onto SH2 ramp for Takatimu Drive north or continue on Waihi Road and turn right onto Cameron Road for SH29A south.

People travelling from Paeroa northward are encouraged to consider using State Highway 1 and State Highway 29, or State Highway 27 and State Highway 29 over the Kaimais.

"Motorists should avoid unnecessary travel, consider working from home where possible and expect delays.

"People are encouraged to visit the Transport Agency's Journey Planner website for up-to-date information about the closure and detour.

"The Transport Agency thanks motorists for their patience."

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