Masterton Police say James Triple M Ford, the man sought for a shooting in the town on Tuesday night, still has a firearm and is quite capable of using it again.
Detective Sergeant Mark McHattie, head of Wairarapa Area CIB, says Ford is believed to be on the run somewhere in the central or lower North Island.
"This man is very dangerous to the public and police," he says. "Ford has already shot and injured one man. We don't want anyone else hurt.
"If people see him or know where he is, they should contact police immediately."
An Arrest Warrant was issued yesterday for Ford's arrest on a variety of charges including unlawful possession of a firearm, wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm, kidnapping and possession of ammunition.
It follows an overnight shooting in Masterton on Tuesday night when a man was shot in the leg. He is now in a comfortable condition in hospital.
Detective Sergeant McHattie says police have been talking with a number of people who have told detectives that Ford still has a firearm in his possession.
"We've been told that Ford is becoming increasingly agitated and that his behaviour is fuelled by P. His actions are a major concern for us and we want him found," Detective Sergeant McHattie says.
"He knows we want to speak to him so we're appealing to him to give himself up now."
Ford is aged 44 years, is a male Maori, of medium to solid build, and is short (154cm). He has prolific facial tattoos, long dark hair and normally has a moustache.
Ends
Media contact: Det Sgt Mark McHattie, Masterton Area CIB,
tel 06 370 0372