Police say a wanted man's Facebook taunt has backfired by drawing more attention to himself.
Michael Shane Hagger, 34, has three warrants for his arrest issued by Taupo District Court.
The Tauhara Paetiki Neighbourhood Policing Team posted a picture of Hagger on its Facebook page on Saturday, and asked the public for information on his whereabouts.
Hagger "liked" the police page and responded on the post with "hoo rah", gaining 53 likes for the comment.
Police responded saying they were glad Hagger liked the page but could he please get in touch with a local detective "to get these matters sorted".
That plea failed and Hagger continues to elude police.
However, Taupo police Acting Area Commander Senior Sergeant Tony Jeurissen says Hagger has "clearly underestimated the power of social media".
"By attempting to taunt police he has simply drawn national attention to himself and increased our chances of finding him. He would be wise to heed the initial response to his Facebook message and make contact with us to get the outstanding matters resolved."
Hagger has been wanted in court since May on charges relating to shoplifting, police say.
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