Warning: This article discusses suicide.
A Kurow woman says the man shot dead by police near Oamaru was a "very popular, well-liked community member".
Emergency services went to a property in Waitaki on Thursday night after the man, in his 60s, made threats of suicide.
He was shot by police after he threatened them with a firearm.
Waitaki Braids cafe owner Kate White says the man brought great pleasure during his daily visits to her cafe.
"He brought joy to everyone's life," she told Newshub. "He had a big smile, and communicated with everyone in the community on a daily basis."
She said the incident was very out of character for him, adding it was a big shock for the community.
"It's not the sort of thing that happens here," she said. "This is very hard on our local police who are very popular."
White told Newshub the community is doing what it can to help the family at this time.
"A small community like this always gathers around the family.
"They've got a lot of support."
Waitaki District Mayor Gary Kircher is urging residents to come forward and get help if they need it, adding he feels for the police officers involved.
His thoughts are with all those affected, he said.
"My condolences go to the community; to the friends and family of the man, but also to the police officers who were put in the midst of this," Kircher told Newshub.
Criticism condemned
The Police Association is condemning criticism of the police officers involved in the fatal shooting.
President Chris Cahill says negative comments about their actions are ignorant and offensive.
"Police officers attend these situations with the goal of resolving it without any harm to anyone," he told Newshub.
"Unfortunately when you're confronted with an armed gunman, who's suffering [from] severe mental health issues, it's an incredibly dangerous situation."
Full support is being given to the man's family as well as to the police officers involved, acting Southern District Commander Inspector Darryl Sweeney told reporters in Dunedin earlier on Friday.
A critical incident investigation is underway and the Independent Police Conduct Authority has been notified.
The death will be referred to the Coroner.
Where to find help and support:
Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
