The Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauka tracks had been closed (file image). Photo: 123rf
A pair of major cycling and walking tracks in the central North Island are closed while police search for a man wanted for murder.
Police have been looking for 29-year-old Mitchell Cole since Saturday, after two bodies were found in nearby Ruatiti.
Locals told RNZ the Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauka tracks had been closed while police were in the area, as well as several huts along the route.
A police spokesperson confirmed the trails had been closed because of the ongoing manhunt.
Mitchell Cole. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police
The tracks formed a key part of Te Araroa long-distance tramping route, and travellers were being redirected via alternative paths.
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