A man has been taken into police custody after launching an axe attack on Parliament this morning.

A man caused damage to some glass panels but did not try to enter the Parliament buildings. 

Police were called just before 5.30am after the man was seen with the axe.

The man smashed five glass panels at the main entrance to the Parliament buildings.

The entranceway is now blocked off by metal barriers.

In a statement, Parliament said the entrance would be closed until further notice, with the rubber doors of Parliament House an alternative entrance in the meantime.

Security screening will be running from there.

Police said the man did not try to enter the Parliament buildings.

The 31 year old was charged for intentional damage and possession of an offensive weapon and is expected to appear in Wellington District Court this morning.