A police officer is recovering in hospital after being shot during a routine traffic stop last night.
The officer stopped a car in Bankwood Street, Hamilton just before midnight.
The passenger got out of the car with a firearm and fired at the officer.
The officer was shot in the arm and shoulder area.
The driver then fled the scene in his car and the man who had shot the officer stole the police car.
The officer was transported to Waikato Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.
The Armed Offenders Squad and Eagle helicopter were deployed to assist with locating the offenders and the two cars.
The stolen police car, along with all police equipment carried in the car, was recovered at 2.20am on Gordonton Road.
The driver's car was located in Sherwood Drive, Hamilton just after 4am.
The driver was also found at this address and taken into custody.
Police are following positive lines of enquiry to locate the man who shot the officer.
Residents can expect to see a continued police presence at the scene of the shooting in Bankwood Street this morning.
