So far not so good for couch fugitive

The man has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in the Palmerston North District Court. Photo / File

Hiding from police in a couch has proven futile for a Dannevirke man.

Dannevirke Police Senior Sergeant Nathan Davis said the man in his mid 20s was being sought by police for a domestic violence incident last Tuesday.

Police went to a Dannevirke property on Sunday as part of their inquiries Mr Davis said.

"Police had a quick look around the property and as they were leaving an officer decided to look at the couch."

Mr Davis said he asked the officer what "tweaked" his interest in the couch.

"He didn't really know but his instincts proved right, because after picking up a cushion he discovered a hard board instead of springs."

Police lifted the board to find the wanted man hiding beneath. It appears the man had opened up the upholstery and climbed inside the frame but Mr Davis said he hadn't been hiding long.

"Clearly, he's had some help and it does expose the people at the property to some liability as well," he said.

The man has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in the Palmerston North District Court on June 10, charged with two counts of common assault, two counts of breaching a protection order and assault on a child.