Charges after Tunnel standoff

WELLINGTON: A man who on Thursday sparked a 10hour standoff with police on top of Wellington’s Terrace Tunnel has been charged.

He has been charged with dangerous driving causing injury and possession of an offensive weapon.

The 31yearold man was standing on a row of large metal pipes running above the tunnel after it closed due to a twocar crash on Thursday afternoon.

Police said he had a knife with him and was struggling with personal issues.

Wellington District Commander Inspector Chris Bensemann said the man’s health deteriorated in the sun throughout the afternoon, but he had since perked up and was refusing water.

Insp Bensemann said the man had asked to talk to his partner.

Four doubledecker buses were parked underneath the man to reduce the drop space.

He came down and was arrested about 10.30pm after speaking to a family member.

Insp Bensemann said more than 20 police staff — including AOS, police negotiators and dog teams — assisted and all possible tactical options were considered.

‘‘In the end this became a matter of patience and communication and we are glad the incident was resolved without further injury,’’ Insp Bensemann said.

‘‘I would also like to thank Fire and Emergency NZ, Wellington Free Ambulance, and Metlink for their assistance in hot and tiring conditions throughout the nearly 11hour incident.’’

After his arrest, police said the man was going to be medically assessed. — RNZ