Fears escalating violence against police could worsen, before it gets better

A police officer was shot in the leg in Auckland's Flat Bush, leading to a three-hour stand off.

She was wounded but has been discharged from hospital - and a 47-year-old man's appearing in Manukau District Court today.

Former police negotiator, Lance Burdett, says the violence isn't helped by the lack of mental health support for struggling New Zealanders.

Burdett says we can start making changes by providing support early, before it grows as it has in overseas.