UPDATED 9:39pm: A man has died after he was shot during an armed offenders call out in the Thames region today.

In a statement, police say the man confronted police with a firearm and he was subsequently shot. 

He later died in hospital. 

Detective Inspector Chris Page, Waikato District Manager of Criminal Investigations says, “This is a tragic incident and we extend our sincere sympathies to the family of the man involved.

"There will be a thorough investigation into what took place, which will include examining the actions of police staff and the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

This afternoon police closed part of State Highway 25 between the intersection of both exits of Kopu Road onto the highway while they searched a house.

The search was carried out in relation to an incident in the Thames township earlier today.

Police say steps are being taken to advise the Independent Police Conduct Authority.