The armed offenders squad was called out last night to track down a man who had been on the run for about two months after he ran into bush near Lake Paringa in south Westland.
Sirens through Greymouth about 7pm were the first sign of the drama unfolding down south.
West Coast police area commander Inspector John Canning said the man had been up for trial on drug offences when he failed to appear at a court hearing and went on the run about two months ago.
Staff from Greymouth and Hokitika were alerted to the man's whereabouts last night after being advised by Wanaka police.
Staff from Wanaka followed the man to Lake Paringa where he ran into bush to try and evade police.