A man is in police custody after a 10-hour standoff with police in Wellington on Thursday.
Traffic in the capital was brought to a standstill after the 31-year-old climbed on top of the Terrace Tunnel after a head-on collision.
He finally came down at around 10:30pm following 10 hours of negotiations with police and speaking to a family member.
"I am incredibly proud of the professionalism, patience and empathy demonstrated by the Police staff who safely resolved this difficult and sad situation," said Insp Chris Bensemann.
Double-decker buses were brought in to "reduce the drop" to the ground, should the man have fallen.
More than 20 police staff - including the armed offenders squad, police negotiators and dog teams - were involved in the operation, which ended peacefully.
"In the end this became a matter of patience and communication and we are glad the incident was resolved without further injury," said Insp Bensemann.
Fire and Emergency, Wellington Free Ambulance and Metlink also helped manage the situation, Insp Bensemann said.
"We are aware of the major disruption this caused to traffic around the city and police would like to again thank the public for their patience and understanding."
The man at the centre of the incident has been charged with dangerous driving causing injury and possession of an offensive weapon.
Newshub.
