"The search for 21-year-old Liam Strickland in relation to the incident remains ongoing and search warrants were executed at nine properties across Christchurch today," Canterbury's acting district commander Mike Johnson said.
"As a result of these warrants, six people have been taken into custody.
"Methamphetamine, cannabis and three firearms were also located."
Police are appealing for information from the public for any sightings of Strickland or information on his whereabouts.
"He is considered dangerous and should not be approached.
"I have authorised routine arming for all Canterbury Police staff in light of the current circumstances.
"Police would like to thank Christchurch residents today who may have been affected by the ongoing activity in relation to this incident.
"This has been a serious and traumatic event and police thank residents for their co-operation and understanding as inquiries continue."
Anyone with information is urged to call 111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
"Police offer their sincere condolences to the man's family and friends. Police are working to determine the exact details of this incident."
It has also been reported that Strickland was jailed for two years for his part in a vicious assault in 2016 on a man he and his co-offenders regarded as being "too nice" to be in a gang.
Meanwhile, the man who was struck down as the suspect fled police has been described as "a kind, caring soul".
Wednesday afternoon's incident has rocked the Christchurch suburb, especially Amies' family and friends who are struggling to come to terms with his shock loss.
One friend, who did not want to be named, said "Dean was a kind, caring soul".
"Honestly Deano was an awesome character ... I hope they catch the scum that has caused grief on Dean's family.
"Big kia kaha to his son and family and friends."
The woman's sentiments have been shared by others on social media.
Another friend wrote, "such sad news, Deano Amies you didn't deserve that, no one does, wow, shocked, RIP", and "RIP Deano Amies I'll treasure our memories can't believe this has happened, rest easy cuz x".
Canterbury homeless advocates Street Wise also posted of Amies' death, confirming he was one of their street community.
"One of our Street Whānau tragically lost their lives in a hit-and-run in New Brighton," they wrote.
"This is obviously a very sad time for the community, but being that we lost Street Whānau, it hits us all that much harder.
"We want you all to know that we're here for you! If you need to talk or just want a hug, please reach out."
Police have been actively searching various properties in Christchurch on their hunt for Strickland.
A heavy police presence was seen in the suburb of Aranui last night, with video posted to social media showing armed police outside a house.
Earlier, witness Sam Heselwood said he saw a man in a grey hoodie speed past in a Subaru Legacy wagon with a police car in pursuit.
Shortly afterwards, the same car sped back the other way "going 200km/h at least", with eight or so police cars behind him, Heselwood said.
Minutes later the same man, now in a van, drove back the other way. Video footage from the scene shows the van screaming down the road, mounting the kerb and almost hitting a pedestrian who narrowly ran out of the way.
The police officers had by that point appeared to have pulled out of the pursuit, Heselwood said.
