A man is critically injured after being shot by police in north Canterbury's Kaiapoi on Saturday night.
Emergency services were called to Williams St at about 7:20pm after reports the man was threatening someone with a metal bar and knife.
On officers' arrival, the man allegedly "attacked the police vehicle with a metal bar", Canterbury District Commander Supt John Price said.
"The man has then made his way to Peraki St where multiple tactical options were deployed including taser and OC spray, which did not affect him."
Price said police fired "multiple shots" at the man, who was critically injured.
"Officers provided immediate first aid to the man until paramedics arrived on [the] scene, after which he was transported to Christchurch Hospital where he remains."
It did not appear anyone else was injured in the incident.
Price said a scene examination was underway.
"We understand this will be a shock to the Kaiapoi community and we want to reassure them that there is no ongoing risk."
Price added would be an increased police presence in Kaiapoi following the incident.
"This will also have a huge impact on the officers involved, their families and colleagues, and we will be providing them with support," he said.
The Independent Police Conduct Authority would be notified, Price said.
