North Otago Police, St John and Fire Emergency New Zealand services are gathering in Ōamaru tonight for a training exercise.

The groups are taking part in an exercise at Ōamaru Mitre 10 Mega between 7pm and 9pm.

During this time, people may see Police in tactical uniforms carrying training firearms and there may also be some noise, but there is no cause for concern, a police statement says.

Exercises like this are a vital part of making sure emergency services are able to respond to any situation.

These exercises could not happen without the support of local communities, and the groups want to thank them for their support and cooperation, the statement says.