Man who sparked major Armed Offenders callout appears in court

The man who sparked a major Armed Offenders Squad callout north of Taupo yesterday has appeared in Rotorua District Court.

Te Morehu Enoka, 27, appeared via audio visual link this morning in front of Community Magistrate Sherida Cooper.

Duty solicitor Tim Braithwaite appeared on behalf of Enoka. He said the Te Puke man faced a significant number of charges, though not all had been filed.

Police alleged Enoka did a drive-off in a stolen car from a petrol station in Tokoroa about 9am yesterday.

As the hunt for him progressed, police closed roads and warned locals in the Whakamaru and Atiamuri areas to stay inside and lock their doors.

The Armed Offenders Squad, dog units and Eagle helicopter were all involved in the search.

Enoka was found and arrested in Rotorua late last night.

Enoka did not plea to the charges and police opposed bail. Police also asked that a forensic nurse interview Enoka.

He was remanded in custody and will next appear on June 12 via audio visual link.