The woman was found unresponsive in a police cell. (File photo) Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
A woman who died in police custody was tasered by police several hours earlier after reports she was hurting herself and threatening to harm others.
Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill said police attended an incident at a property in Rakaia about 1am following reports of an intoxicated woman in possession of a knife who was hurting herself and threatening to harm others.
"Faced with a tense and dangerous situation, and after unsuccessful appeals for the weapon to be put down, police tasered the woman."
"She was arrested and transported to the Christchurch Custody Suite."
The woman was assessed by a doctor shortly after 4am, before being placed in a cell.
"Around 6.50am, the woman was located unresponsive in her cell. police immediately notified St John and officers also provided medical assistance."
"Sadly, attempts to revive her were unsuccessful."
The woman's death has been referred to the Coroner and the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA).
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