Violent Cromwell man still on run

File photo / NZ Herald

A Cromwell man, described as dangerous, who escaped from police custody at the weekend is still on the run.

Brandon Rockhouse, 20, fled while being taken out of a police car at Cromwell police station about 5pm on Sunday.

Sergeant Mike Williams said Rockhouse, who was under a 24-hour curfew for aggravated robbery, had been arrested for allegedly breaching his bail.

A handcuffed Rockhouse was taken the Cromwell station in a patrol car by two police officers.

"At the station, the rear door was opened for him to get out, and he had the opportunity to make a run for it," Mr Williams said.

Rockhouse escaped and the police officers chased him on foot, but could not catch him. Three other officers were called out and police searched properties in the area for about three hours.

Mr Williams said as long as Rockhouse was on the run, police would keep hunting for him.

Rockhouse was last seen on Orchard Place, wearing a white hooded sweatshirt, blue "shiny" jeans and a black T-shirt with a white skull on the front.

"He has multiple associations in Cromwell, so he's probably changed by now."

Rockhouse also had a number of contacts in the Christchurch and Dunedin areas, he said.

Rockhouse had a history of violence and should not be approached, police said.

- NZPA