The Te Puna community is being thanked for their patience during an armed police operation.

Armed police were seen in the Western Bay area this morning.

SunLive was contacted by several community members about an armed police presence near Tangitu Road today.

Police say the Armed Offenders Squad assisted other officers with a pre-planned search warrant.

Western Bay of Plenty area investigations manager Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlinson says they've been conducting a pre-planned operation in the area.

He says the Armed Offenders Squad provided support as a precaution.

"We would like to thank the local community for their patience while road closures have been in place today."

Updates will be provided when available.