Police say they're providing reassurance, after they fatally shot a man in Lower Hutt

Officers showed up to a Coast Road property in Wainuiomata around midday yesterday, where a man was holding a weapon to his partner's throat, in what's described as a hostage-type scenario.

There'll be an increased police presence in the area in the coming days.

Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell says fatal police shootings are frightening events - particularly for the local community, who will be shaken.