A major police operation is unfolding in the Hauraki District following reports of a firearm sighting.

Police attended Wani Rd, Awaiti just before 11am.

“Armed staff are on the scene as a precaution as is standard with any job potentially involving a firearm,” a spokesperson said.

Residents said Hauraki Rd had been blocked off at Wharepoa Rd.

A Hauraki Rd resident said her husband was coming home from work and usually turned down Awaiti Rd but it was blocked by two police cars.

“He went around through Paeroa and coming down Hauraki Rd where we live there were three police cars with officers talking in a group.”

Another Awaiti resident said her husband could see police presence in the area.

”Our daughter will stay at school until Awaiti Rd is open again.”

A Wani Rd resident said they were told not to leave the house.

”We can’t go in or out of our street.”