A "dangerous" fugitive is wanted by police who warn he could be in either the greater Wellington area or the South Island.
Mathew Kidman, 40 has a number of warrants for his arrest.
Kidman is considered dangerous and should not be approached and anyone who sees him is asked to contact police immediately by calling 111, a police statement said.
Kidman is known to have strong links in Wellington.
It is the not the first time police have had to launch a search for him.