Armed Offenders Squad in Stratford
State Highway 3 is closed in Stratford as armed offenders squad works to arrest 'person of interest'
The road is closed between Pembroke and Monmouth Rds. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency said the road has been closed since 11pm on Monday.
A resident said there was a police chase into Stratford from the south that night and police had laid spikes on SH3/Broadway St, near the intersection with Pembroke Rd, and shots had been fired.
Here's what you need to know:
- Cordons are in place on Celia St, Seyton St, Hamlet St, and Pembroke Rd. State Highway 3 is closed up to Monmouth St.
- Three people have been evacuated from their homes to a nearby motel.
- Stratford Primary School said it's planning to stay open on Tuesday, given the campus is on the other side of town from the police operation.
- Avon School on Hamlet St was also in lock down following a call from police.
- A Stuff reporter on Celia St said more than a dozen loud bangs that sounded like gunshots rang out about 8am.
- A detour is in place via Pembroke and Monmouth roads, and drivers are asked to follow the instructions of contractors onsite, Waka Kotahi said.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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