Wellington police seek man over $230,000 fraud

Police have appealed for public assistance in finding Christian Smith. Photo / Supplied via police

Wellington police are looking for an alleged fraudster accused of obtaining more than $230,000 of goods.

Officers are looking for Christian Smith, who was previously known as Christopher Stanley Sanford and Christopher Raymond Mish-Willis, and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.

They have also appealed for public assistance in finding him.

Police said they were investigating fraud complaints received from trade supply businesses allegedly targeted by Smith between November and May.

He is accused of obtaining more than $230,000 of drainage equipment, power tools and alcohol through fraudulent credit accounts.

Smith, 47, was due to have appeared in the Wellington District Court this week, on nine charges of obtaining by deception.

As well as the power tools and equipment, Smith is charged with de-frauding $5000 of Vodafone vouchers, more than $31,000 of beer, wine, spirits and snack food and courier bags.

The maximum penalty for each charge is seven years' jail.

Police are also reminding business that provide credit accounts to clients to take measures to protect themselves, such as doing checks on anyone who applies for credit.

Anyone with information on Smith can call Wellington police on 04 381 2000 and ask for Detective Blair Adamson.