At around 8.40am this morning a 32-year-old male has failed to stop for Police.
After a short pursuit he has abandoned the stolen vehicle he was driving and fled on Coast Road in Wainuiomata.
12 units responded, including a dog handler, and are now searching the remote area.
"Police are aware that the male has access to firearms so are taking every precaution" says Senior Sergeant Steve Braybrook.
"We are up in the bush at the moment searching for the male. Anyone who sees a tall, caucasian male, of thin build, wearing a light coloured shirt and dark trousers in the area should not approach him and immediately contact Police".
ENDS