Man sought after firearm allegedly pointed at neighbour

File photo / NZ Herald

A man who allegedly presented a firearm at a neighbour this afternoon is urgently being sought by police.

Police said John William Finnerty, 57, is wanted after a man presented a firearm at a person in Te Aroha this afternoon.

The Waikato Armed Offenders Squad was deployed to a house in Te Aroha after reports of one or more shots being fired following an altercation between neighbours about 2:10pm.

Finnerty was thought to be inside one of the residences, and gas was deployed, however he was not found.

Police seized the firearm alleged to have been used and were continuing to search for Finnerty in the town.

Police said no injuries were sustained by anyone involved in the altercation.

Finnerty was described as European, approximately 183cm (6ft) of large build and with a distinctive gait.

Police warned he may have access to other weapons and should not be approached.

Anybody with any information that could help Police locate Finnerty or piece together the events leading up to the incident, was asked to contact Senior Constable Craig Gordon at Te Aroha Police on 07 858 6200 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.