A tense standoff in Blenheim has ended safely, with a 44-year-old man taken into custody and a baby recovered unharmed.

The incident began at a Park Terrace property, where the man had barricaded himself inside with the baby following a family harm-related situation.

Police, including a specialist Negotiation Team, worked through the night to bring the situation under control.

The standoff ended at approximately 4:35 pm on Saturday, with the man being arrested and the baby recovered safely and without injury.

Marlborough Area Commander Inspector Simon Feltham said the welfare of everyone involved had been their top priority.

“Our focus has been the welfare of all involved, and we are very pleased that the incident has been resolved safely,” Inspector Feltham said.

Police tactical units were also deployed to the scene, supported by the New Zealand Defence Force.

Neighbours, who were evacuated overnight as a precaution, have now been allowed to return to their homes.

Inspector Feltham expressed gratitude to the local community. “We thank the neighbours and the wider community for their patience and cooperation during what we know has been an extremely unsettling situation.”