Escaper's naked ambition

A near-naked man who escaped Whakatane police by diving headfirst down a steep bank was nabbed yesterday after a 24-hour search.

Werimu Rangi Hauraki, a 34-year-old Eastern Bay resident, was about to appear in Whakatane court when he escaped police near Commerce St on Friday morning.

Police cornered Hauraki on two occasions, but the determined 1.82m tall dreadlocked man managed to escape.

After a search into the night by a team including a helicopter and police dogs, Hauraki was found in a river near Opotiki, yesterday. He covered more than 40km on foot while handcuffed, with only weed matting for clothing.

Acting Sergeant Philippa Gray from Whakatane police said Hauraki "didn't seem to be hurt".

He is due to appear in Whakatane District Court tomorrow on charges of aggravated burglary, burglary. Further charges are likely.