Waikato police say the decision to use guns is never done lightly

A man was shot by police last night in the Hamilton suburb of Hillcrest, after he fired a number of shots.

He died at the scene, despite receiving first aid.

District Commander, Superintendent Bruce Bird, says support's being given to the man's family and the officers involved.

Another police officer was shot in the shoulder in Bankwood Road, also in Hamilton, over the weekend.