Armed police are at the scene of a stand-off in South Auckland, more than one hour after negotiations began.

The armed man is at an address in Manurewa, where he had begun negotiations with police and the Armed Offenders Squad.

The man is currently wanted by police.

At least nine patrol cars, several unmarked police vehicles, two ambulances and a canine unit were in the neighbourhood around Rimu Rd in Manurewa.

"There's a huge number of police here," a Herald photographer at the scene said.

He said there were also two armed offenders squad teams in the neighbourhood.

"The Armed Offenders [Squad] have been going in and out of the houses."

He said the situation appeared to be stable at about 12.50pm.

Police have said the public should avoid Mahia Rd, Rimu Rd, Christmas Rd and Tawa Cres until the situation is resolved.

- NZ Herald

- Images: Daniel Hines