Police investigating Wainuiomata incident earlier this morning

Police are investigating an incident in Wainuiomata where a group of students playing in the Pukeatua School grounds saw a male from a distance waving an item which resembled a firearm.

Lower Hutt Senior Sergeant Steve Braybrook says, "Around 11:25am, a male was walking on a bridge adjacent to the school near Black Creek where he waved an item at the students, before heading off in the direction of Norfolk Street."

Senior Sergeant Braybrook says, "Schools in the local area have been advised of this incident and we have a large number of Police staff currently in Wainuiomata looking for this person."

"Police have had no further sightings of this male since this initial incident at 11:25am. The male was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with patterns on both sleeves."

Anyone with any information as to the man's identity or anyone who has any information should contact Police on 111 or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.