He received emergency medical treatment and was hooked up to a heart monitor. While under police guard, Anderson made a dash out of a hospital window - still attached to his heart monitor.
Wearing a hospital gown and encumbered by handcuffs, he fled across Hagley Park and into the Botanic Gardens.
His gown was later found in the gardens, indicating he may have planned his escape ahead of time.
Yesterday, police confirmed that Anderson had been in their custody at the time of his escape on February 21 about 5.15pm.
"There is no indication that Mr Anderson's medical condition was not genuine," a spokesman said.
Officers think Anderson is either hiding in empty eastern suburbs houses or attempting to "make his way north". Sergeant Jason Stewart of Papanui police said he was not known to have contacts in Christchurch.
A number of "possible sightings" had been reported to police, but none had been verified, Mr Stewart said.
Police are asking residents in the eastern suburbs to keep an eye out for any possible sightings of Anderson.
He is described as a male European, 1.72m in height, with thinning blond hair.
Anderson is facing 26 charges of theft and intentional damage in relation to the removal of the brass plaques from Waikumete Cemetery in West Auckland in October.
Mr Stewart said that although Anderson was not considered dangerous, the public should not approach him. APN
