A man wanted in connection with a "serious violent crime" was arrested after sparking a manhunt in the Rangitikei today.
Ross Grantham from Central District Police said William Hartley was arrested around 1pm. He had last been seen in the Vinegar Hill domain around 11.15am, wearing a long blonde wig over his shaved head, and an orange high-viz t-shirt.
The manhunt closed SH54 between Hunterville and Feilding for several hours. Mr Grantham had earlier asked motorists travelling on SH1 in the area not to pick up hitch hikers, warning that Hartley was dangerous and should not be approached.
It was not clear why police were searching for Hartley, but Mr Grantham said he was wanted as a suspect in a serious violent crime.