Three young men with a gun were reportedly seen by several members of the public this afternoon in the south Auckland suburb of Mangere.
A large number of police units - including the Eagle Helicopter and dog patrols - rushed to the area around 2:30pm, after reports emerged the three young men on push bikes may have been carrying a firearm.
Cordons were put in place, but after numerous ground and air searches, the trio was not located.
The young men are described as Maori or Pacific Islanders in their mid to late teens, and were wearing sports clothing like trackpants and hoodies.
Police ask anyone who may know the identity of the youths to call Counties Manukau Police on (09) 261 1300, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Newshub.
