Police continue search for David Bourke

Police efforts remain focused on finding David Bourke believed to have been involved in a shooting incident near Norsewood yesterday.

Central District Commander Russell Gibson said police were systematically searching the area that has been cordoned since yesterday when Bourke fled from police near Dannevirke.

David Bourke is described as European, 170cms tall, stocky build with short greying hair.

"We have ground teams clearing outhouses, barns, farm sheds and we had thermal imaging from the helicopters. So far we haven't located David and we are most concerned that we find him soon," Mr Gibson said.

Staff have been brought in from surrounding districts including four Armed Offenders Squads from Palmerston North, Wellington, Hawke's Bay and Wanganui.

The cordon area size is about 3000 hectares, between Norsewood, Ormandville and Takapau.

"This is a huge area we are working to clear. We are doing this as quickly as possible to do this but we are mindful that this is a potentially dangerous situation and we are treating it accordingly.

"We know this is an inconvenience for those people who are still unable to return to their houses, but we are working as quickly as we can and we will let them know as soon as the area is cleared.

Police have urged farm workers to take extra care as they go about their work today and to notify police immediately of any suspicious activity.

Advice to residents is to stay inside locked premises if possible, and to remain vigilant. Mr Bourke should not be approached if seen.

Mr Gibson said the other focus for police today is the body found in the car at Butcher's Creek is the subject of a homicide investigation.

ESR is due to begin a scene examination of the car this afternoon. The man in the car remains unidentified.

For further information contact 027 474 8005