P lab allegedly found in man's car boot

A pipe used to smoke methamphetamine, also known as 'P'. Photo / Martin Sykes

A 42-year-old Rotorua man will appear in Wanganui District Court today after police allegedly found a clandestine drug lab in the boot of his car.

The man drove off at high speed after a highway patrol police officer signalled him to stop on State Highway 1 about 3km north of Waiouru on Friday afternoon.

Police central district communications manager Kim Perks said the officer pursued the vehicle through central Waiouru before abandoning the chase for safety reasons.

Three patrol cars began searching for the man who, after a tip-off from a member of the public, was found about 10km south of Waiouru.

He was caught after a short chase on foot.

Ms Perks said a search of the man's vehicle revealed equipment, materials and precursors used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

The man was due to appear in court today charged with two counts of possessing equipment, material with intent, dangerous driving and failing to stop.

More charges could follow, Ms Perks said.

- NZPA