Police have closed roads and told locals in the Whakamaru and Atiamuri areas to stay inside and lock their doors.
They said this afternoon they were widening their search and warned people to be careful in case he had moved from the area.
Bay of Plenty police said in a statement this afternoon they would continue to maintain a high profile in the Mangakino and Whakamaru areas.
The Armed Offenders Squad, dog units and Eagle helicopter are all involved in the search.
"The priority for police is to ensure public safety, and our staff are talking to local residents and shop owners as the search continues," the statement said.
Police are also liaising with local mayors and iwi.
Extra police patrols will also be working in the area throughout the night.
"Police are also considering the possibility that he is no longer in the immediate area, however this will not be confirmed until a thorough search has been concluded.
"We urge the community to remain vigilant at this time and do not approach the man if you see him."
Police repeated their warning not to give strangers lifts if they are hitch-hiking, and report any suspicious activity to police.
Earlier today police were hunting the man in the Atiamuri and Ongaroto Rd areas and partially closed part of State Highway 1 with diversions via Ohakuri Rd and State Highway 30.
A Whakamaru mother told the Rotorua Daily Post she had been locked inside her house all day, apart from when she dashed to the school bus stop with her 1-year-old to pick up her 6-year-old.
The woman, who didn't want to be named, said people in the country didn't usually lock their doors and windows but she had been inside all day and glued to her phone looking for updates.
"I just locked everything up and stayed inside. My dogs have been right by my side."
The woman's husband, who was at work each day until 5pm, had been in touch with her during the day to make sure the family were okay.
She said by this afternoon she started to feel better because she could tell from comments on Facebook the hunt for the man had moved more towards Mangakino.
However, until he was arrested she said she wouldn't be sleeping very well.
UPDATE from Senior Sergeant Tony Jeurissen, Taupo Police
Bay of Plenty Police will continue to maintain a high profile...
Posted by Bay of Plenty & Taupo Police on Tuesday, May 23, 2017
