Coastguard New Zealand asked people to refrain from heading out on the water during the lockdown period.

He said police will be out in force to protect the community 24/7 during the pandemic lockdown.

A number of police are in self isolation as the Covid-19 pandemic takes a bigger grip on New Zealand.

Police Commissioner Mike Bush says the military will be called on if needed to ensure the public follow Government restrictions.

Superintendent John Price said right from the first day of the trial - February 17 - the Eagle has been in demand.

A fleeing driver who fired shots at pursuing police officers in a shootout last year has been jailed for nine years.