Murupara teen who stole police patrol car evades police

Police are still seeking 18-year-old Maaki Emery. Photo/Supplied

Police have sighted Maaki Emery but he continues to evade police custody.

The 18-year-old is alleged to have stolen a police car - with a police-issue firearm inside - from Murupara, Bay of Plenty, more than two weeks ago.

The car was later found on Gibbs Rd - about 15km away - about 4 hours later.

Emery was reportedly handcuffed when the car was stolen.

Today Rotorua police area prevention manager Inspector Stuart Nightingale confirmed police had made a sighting of Emery but said he was actively avoiding arrest.

"Apparently he was going to hand himself in and then changed his mind. We are urging him to hand himself in.

"He can't avoid the inevitable, the best thing he can do is front up, say sorry and face the music."

Another person has been charged with accessory after the fact for their part in helping Emery evade police.

Anyone with any information about Emery is asked to call Rotorua Police on (07) 3499 400 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.