Police gave chase, however were unable to catch him and he was last seen running down a driveway on Great North Rd.
The Auckland City District Commander, Superintendent Karyn Malthus, said police were treating this event seriously.
"It is very disappointing that an offender was able to flee from police while in our custody and we will be undertaking an immediate review of this incident," Malthus said.
"This incident will also form part of the national review currently being undertaken of the custody and transport of offenders by police.
"We are actively searching for this offender and we urge anyone with information about the whereabouts of Michael Robertson to contact police immediately."
Anyone with information or possible sightings of Robertson is asked to call 111. You can also provide information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.