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New Zealand stabbings: Three critically injured in knife rampage at Countdown supermarket in Dunedin

Watch: Man detained after supermarket stabbing

A man has launched a knife attack in a New Zealand supermarket, wounding five people including three who are fighting for life.

Police said a suspect had been arrested and taken into custody after the incident at a Countdown supermarket in the city of Dunedin on Monday. Two supermarket staff members were among those wounded.

People in the store at the time told local media that of the chaotic scene as people began screaming and running toward the exits. They said some brave shoppers had tried to stop the man and pin him down.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the motivation for the attack had not been established but police did not have any evidence to suggest it was domestic terrorism.

"Needless to say that such an attack is hugely concerning, and I do want to acknowledge the really early reports of courageous acts by bystanders who have taken action in order to protect those around them," Ms Ardern said. "Our thoughts are with all those affected by this attack."

Ms Ardern said five people had been taken to Dunedin Hospital with stab wounds or related injuries.

<p>First responders take a victim to an ambulance outside the Countdown supermarket in central Dunedin</p> (AP)

First responders take a victim to an ambulance outside the Countdown supermarket in central Dunedin

(AP)

Health authorities said three of the wounded had been admitted to the intensive care unit, a fourth person remained in the general ward at the hospital and the fifth person had been treated and released.

"We are shocked and devastated by the events in our Dunedin Central Store this afternoon," Countdown said in a statement. "Our priority right now is our injured team members and caring for our wider team in the wake of this extremely traumatic event.

“We are deeply upset that customers who tried to help our team members were also injured."

Police said they would be releasing more details on the incident later on Monday.

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