North Waikato Prison Escaper Release 2
Additional staff are patrolling the Northern Waikato this evening and Police are reiterating earlier warnings to residents to check their security as the hunt for a dangerous fugitive continues.
Huntly Sub-Area Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Simpson, said Police had been searching for Storm Bryce HUGHES, 33, since he fled a work party working outside the wire at the Springhill Correctional Facility about 9.15am.
"HUGHES has a significant history of violent offending in Australia and if seen should not be approached.
'We are warning residents in the Huntly, Mercer, Te Kauwhata, Pukekohe, Pokeno and surrounding districts to be extra vigilant and secure all windows, doors and outbuildings and to make sure all vehicles on their properties are locked."
Mr Simpson advised farmers to watch for any signs a fugitive may be loose on their property.
"You may have dogs going off or stock too spooked to go into an area or paddock, if you notice something amiss we ask you contact Police immediately.
"It's not unusual in these circumstances for escapees to go to ground before dark and then come out and try and gain access to shelter or to a vehicle. Again we ask anyone who may see something amiss to dial 111."
HUGHES is described as a male Caucasian, of medium build, 171cm tall with short blond hair and various tattoos on his arms and back.
When last seen HUGHES was dressed in a blue denim jacket, grey shirt and grey trousers.
Formerly from Australia HUGHES has previously lived in Tokoroa and has links to the Turangi and Taumarunui areas. Police are working with border control agencies and Corrections in an effort to recapture him.
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