NSW Police have shot a man who allegedly confronted them with an edged weapon during an arrest.

Officers said they tried to taser the man — twice — but both times were ineffective and he allegedly continued to threaten them with the weapon in a unit block on Honeysuckle Dr in Newcastle.

One officer then fired, shooting the man in the shoulder.

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He was taken to John Hunter Hospital under police guard.

Police said officers were trying to arrest a 36-year-old man wanted on five outstanding warrants.

Northern Operations Support Group and Northern Region Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Team officers forced their way into the unit block about 8.30am.

The man then allegedly confronted them with the edged weapon.

A crime scene was established and inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are underway by Newcastle City Police District.