A Police officer was justified in punching a man to defend himself in January

The officer was arresting a man at a central North Island house for breaching bail -- when another man physically intervened.

The officer punched the second man and a scuffle broke out between the two.

The second man then locked himself in the house, before escaping through the back window.

The Independent Police Conduct Authority is satisfied the officer was justified in the force used.

Police agree with the findings, saying the officer acted appropriately in confronting and difficult circumstances.