Two NSW police stabbed, man arrested

Two police officers have been stabbed and shots fired during a confrontation with a man in Lake Macquarie, according to NSW Police.

The 25-year-old was arrested and taken to Toronto Police Station.

Police allege officers confronted by the man, who was armed with two knives, when they were called to a Toronto service station about 1pm on Sunday.

"A number of shots were discharged by police. However, the man was uninjured, and two officers suffered stab wounds - one to leg and the other to the hand," a police statement said.

Both officers were taken to hospital in a stable condition and will undergo surgery.

Bystanders reportedly stepped in to help police apprehend the man.

"Those members of the public that came forward with no regard for their own safety, helped out just a couple of blokes doing their job," Superintendent Danny Sullivan told reporters.

Supt Sullivan said he was "exceptionally proud" of the two officers and "the courage they displayed".