Schools in Cambridge have gone into lockdown at the request of the police.

Cambridge High School, Cambridge Middle School and Cambridge East have notified parents.

Police are in attendance on Waipa Road in the Waikato town where a report was received about 10.40am of a man in possession of a weapon.

Police have asked Cambridge High School and other nearby schools and early childhood centres to keep their students inside while officers attend and work to locate the male.

"Because of police instructions regarding a local situation, the school has gone into lockdown. All students are safe in their classrooms and will remain there until the police give the all clear," Cambridge High School says in a social media post.

"The students on the Y9 French Cinema trip will not be returned to school until the campus has reopened."

It says exams this afternoon were cancelled. "Any students with exams this afternoon need to stay away from the school. Parents are requested not to enter the school grounds until the police lift the lockdown. We will keep everyone informed with any changes as soon as we can."

Cambridge Middle School says it had been advised to go into lockdown by the police "because of an incident at a neighbouring school".

"Please do not come to the school or phone the school as you will not be attended to as your child's welfare and safety is our priority. This includes contacting via email or phone, your son and/or daughter. Your assistance and cooperation are appreciated at this time. All further updates will be provided on the school website."

- RNZ.