Wanted: Police seek Mahara

Police searching for a man involved in a violent weekend domestic incident are seeking the public’s help in locating the alleged offender who they believe may be in the Bay of Plenty area.

Detective Sergeant Mata John says 34-year-old Christopher Hemi Mahara is a high risk offender allegedly involved in an incident in Horotiu in the Waikato around 3.30pm on Saturday.

“At the time we believe Mahara and his pregnant partner became involved in an argument as they drove in a blue four-door-sedan along River Road towards Ngaruawahia.

“Mahara, who was in possession of a loaded .22 rifle and an axe handle, became angry and pulled the car over to the left hand side of Horotiu Road, just before the bridge, where he has assaulted the woman.”

Mata says the man has then driven his car to Ngaruawahia where the woman managed to escape when he stopped at a liquor store.

Police do not know what type of car Mahara is driving now and ask anyone who may have seen the incident on Horotiu Road make contact with them.

Mahara is described as a male Maori of thin build and about 150cm tall.

Police say he is wanted not only for the weekend’s assault but for an existing warrant to arrest for breaching bail.

“All incidents of domestic violence are treated very seriously by Police but this one, in which the offender is armed with a loaded firearm and an axe handle is obviously escalated to a greater degree of seriousness.

“Anyone who sees Mahara is asked not to approach him but to ring 111.”

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is also urged to contact Ngaruawahia Police on 07 824 8199.

Alternatively information can be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.