Western Bay of Plenty residents are being urged to be on the lookout for a man who escaped from a prison south of Te Awamutu early this morning.
Waikato police say the man has links in the Bay of Plenty and are warning he is dangerous and should not be approached.
The 43 year old, William Katipa, escaped from a medium security unit at the prison after scaling a security fence at about 3am.

A second prison inmate was prevented from escaping by responding to prison staff.
William is described as a male Maori, 180 cm tall, of solid build with coloured wavy hair, and is clean shaven with a dark complexion.
Police say it is not known what he was wearing at the time of his escape.
He has a tattoo of a bird on his neck and a glove on his forearm.
The man has an extensive criminal history with over 20 convictions that include sexual attacks, violence and burglary.
Police warn that given his history of violence, William should not be approached and if seen people should ring 111 immediately.
Police are working closely with the Department of Corrections trying to recapture the man and establish areas he is likely to head.