Waikato police are looking for Taneti Karaitiana (21), wanted in relation to two warrants to arrest over serious violence, firearms and sexual offences, and breach of court release conditions.
He has 'MMM' tattooed on his forehead, and a bulldog tattoo on each side of his face.
Police announced they were seeking Karaitiana shortly after news broke that 22-year-old Ihaka Kawana had escaped from police custody in Nelson this morning - for the second time in six months.
He was last seen heading in the direction of Queen's Gardens in Nelson.
Karaitiana's current whereabouts were unknown, police said, but he is known to have links to Hamilton and Kawerau.
Both men were considered dangerous and should not be approached.
Police spokeswoman Barbara Dunn said the circumstances of Kawana's escape would form part of a police internal investigation and she could not comment further until the investigation was complete.
This is the second time Kawana has escaped custody in the last six months.
He escaped from Nelson District Court on the evening of October 5 last year before being caught by police the next morning at a Nelson address.
Anyone with information on Karaitiana's whereabouts should contact their nearest police station, and anyone who saw Kawana should call 11 immediately, police advised.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
