Alleged Whanganui fraudster on run from police

William Harding is wanted by Whanganui police for failing to appear in court on fraud charges. Photo / NZ Police

An elderly man alleged to have defrauded women in Whanganui is on the run after failing to appear in court.

Police say William Harding, in his mid-70s, is from Whanganui but could now be anywhere, including Wellington.

Harding has been wanted since he failed to turn up for a court hearing on August 9.

At his first appearance in the Whanganui District Court, Harding pleaded not guilty to two charges of obtaining by deception and one charge of causing loss by deception.

William Harding does not have a car currently registered to him, so could be being driven around. Photo / NZ Police

The three alleged victims were women over 60.

Harding no longer has a vehicle registered in his name so it was possible he was being driven around.

Anyone with information is asked to call Whanganui Sergeant Nick Brunger on (06) 349 0614.