They said they would like to hear from anyone with information on the whereabouts of David Wilson.
Police are seeking a 51-year-old man in relation to a fleeing driver incident in Te Anau earlier today.
They said they would like to hear from anyone with information on the whereabouts of David Wilson.
"Wilson is believed to be in possession of a firearm," police said in a statement.
"If you see him do not approach and call 111."
They said earlier a large police operation was underway near Te Anau after a driver fled police.
Police converged on the area and Armed Offenders Squad members were on the way.
A spokeswoman said police were searching for someone, but had no further details.
A witness said a car had been abandoned in the middle of State Highway 94, near the town.
Three police cars were there, and a police dog and handler were searching a nearby field.
A resident of nearby Tutoko Lane said she had received a phone call telling her to stay inside.
A St John spokesman said an ambulance was sent but not needed. Southern Lakes Helicopter chief pilot Sir Richard Hayes, who lives near Te Anau, said a helicopter had picked up members of the Invercargill Armed Offenders Squad from near Winton and was flying them to the scene.
He said police officers and a police dog had come through his section on Tutoko Lane searching for someone, but he did not think anyone had been on the property.
The NZ Transport Agency says SH94 is closed between Sandy Brown and Kakapo Rds.
'He has disregarded our voice and continued with this divisive kaupapa.'