A parent of a primary school student who had been visiting the college told NZME she had gone to collect her child when she was told the school was in lockdown.
“I think at the end of the day, the school’s doing the right thing and the police are doing everything they should, so, so you’re not concerned, you’re just patiently waiting.”
Katikati Primary School also posted that the school was in lockdown.
“All children are safe and accounted for. Awaiting instructions from police.
Parents were asked not to call or come to the school, and to check Facebook for updates.
A police spokesman confirmed they were making inquiries to locate a person of interest in Katikati.
Robin’s Nest early childcare centre told the Bay of Plenty Times it was in lockdown at the request of police.
A caller to SunLive said police had cordoned off Beach Rd and armed officers were “standing guard” at the Polley Cres and Park Rd intersections.
Traffic was being diverted around those streets, the caller said.
The SunLive caller said about 15 children had been evacuated from the Robin’s Nest centre by a police officer and about five teachers.
“They seemed all calm and collected.”
Some of the children waved at police as they walked past.
Some parents were waiting for their children and went to greet them.
Parents and bystanders were gathered near Katikati College and a nearby dairy.
“There are some parents wanting to know when it’s all going to lift, but no one is too concerned at this stage.”
At 12.50pm, the caller said police wearing all black had arrived, and a St John unit had set up nearby.
Katikati Medical Centre said on its Facebook page that it had been directed by police to go into lockdown.
“We ask that people stay away for the time being and we will update when we have further information. While this is in place we kindly ask that people refrain from phoning the practice unless necessary at this time.”
More to come
