Hamilton police hunt man seen with firearm

Armed police were called out after reports of a fleeing offender running through Hamilton properties with a firearm in hand.

Hamilton police said the incident began when a patrol spotted a vehicle speeding near Mahana Rd in Te Rapa at about 10.20am.

The driver fled at speed, forcing other motorists into evasive action when he going round a roundabout the wrong way, police said.

Inspector Karen Henrikson said the driver lost control of the vehicle on Jamieson Cres, blowing out one of his car tyres when he mounted a curb.

He ran through two nearby properties after escaping the car on foot, she said.

"A witness yelled out to pursuing staff to be careful because the man was armed with a firearm so as a precaution an area was cordoned off and the assistance of the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad was sought to clear the properties without placing our staff or the public at risk."

The offender was not found at either property.

Police believe the offender was a forbidden driver and are launching inquiries to track him down.

- HERALD ONLINE