Police cordons have been lifted after armed police swooped on a rural area north of Tauranga, where explosions were heard this morning.
Police had earlier said the Armed Offenders Squad was conducting a search in a hangi shop in a rural area north of Tauranga, but would not release any further information.
A couple of loud bangs that sounded like explosions were heard about 9.15am, coming from behind the Whakamarama Superette.
It's on the main highway between Tauranga and Katikati.
Â
NZME's John Borren was at the scene and said there was a "scattering" of police between Te Puna and Whakamarama and a heavy presence at the superette.
"There was probably 10 or a dozen Armed Offenders guys and an equal number of normal police officers who were all armed."
Barrett Rd in Whakamarama was closed for a time, but is now open again.
Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you