Western Bay of Plenty police have started Taser training as about 70 devices will soon be allocated across the wider Bay of Plenty.

A Taser.

Bay of Plenty district operations manager Inspector Scott Fraser, says more than 300 staff across the district will be extensively trained in the use of the device.
He says the introduction of Taser in the Bay of Plenty, and across New Zealand, is an important development for police.
"Tasers ultimately provide us with an effective, non-lethal tool that will help us diffuse serious situations and contribute to safer communities so that people feel safe and reassured in their homes and in the street. At the same time, taser will also help keep our staff safe."