"It is never okay for our officers to act, or react, in a violent manner."
People were pepper-sprayed during the encounter.
The man claimed to have the coronavirus before the alleged attack.
His death is being treated as suspicious.
Raurangi Marino raped a five-year-old girl with "significant violence" in 2011.
"We are aware that vulnerable people continue to be exploited even during such extraordinary times."
Meanwhile people who ignore lockdown rules should prepare to be arrested.
He said history shows criminals are opportunists.
Police say those arrested include known gang members or associates.
An appeal for information has been made by police.
A man who stabbed one of the country's most notorious murderers more than 40 times has been sentenced to preventive detention.
The incident started in the suburb of Addington.
: Police said the comments were "inappropriate" in the context of the day.
The suspect pointed a gun at police before fleeing the scene in one of their cars.
Police say they're working on strengthening their systems.
Gunshots were heard in Papatoetoe - then the men turned up wounded.
Police are investigating.
He disappeared in the Waikato River after getting caught in a current.
Investigators are going door to door in the area seeking more information.
Police were called to the address just after midnight.
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