Porirua Police believe 37-year-old Graham Adrian Rae, wanted on warrant to arrest for assault and arson, has gone to ground in the Waikato.
Investigators have discounted weekend reports that Rae had travelled to the South Island's West Coast.
Constable Damian Doocey, Porirua Police, says Rae has links with family in the Waikato and police strongly believe he's hiding out in this area.
Rae, who is thought to be travelling in a black Mazda Familia car, registration XRS215, is sought for last week's serious assault of a Plimmerton woman and the arson of her Corlett Road home.
He's described as European, 170cm tall, with brown hair and of medium build.
Anyone who sees Rae or knows where he might be found, is asked to contact Porirua Police on telephone: 04 238 1400, or contact the nearest police station.
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