Police will be armed across Canterbury, as the manhunt for the alleged driver involved in a horror hit-and-run continues.
Twenty-one-year-old Liam Strickland is wanted in relation to the incident in New Brighton on Wednesday.
Nine properties have been searched with six people arrested. Acting Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Mike Johnson said methamphetamine and cannabis were also found at the searched properties.
Victim named
Dean Amies, a homeless man, is being remembered as quiet, polite, and always grateful.
A black tent remained in the middle of the cordoned New Brighton Street where he died on Wednesday when he was struck by a stolen vehicle.
Community fridge and pantry owner Trudy Burrows told Newshub his death has had a huge impact.
How the tragedy unfolded
Police were following a speeding vehicle on Wednesday afternoon but called it off shortly afterwards because of its erratic driving.
Two people were arrested without incident, but the third stole another vehicle and rammed a police van.
The victim was hit at a nearby intersection.
Police say Strickland is dangerous and should not be approached.
"I have authorised routine arming for all Canterbury police staff in light of the current circumstances," Supt Johnson said in a statement on Thursday afternoon.
Strickland is 182cm tall, of medium build with dark hair. He has tattoos on his forehead and right cheek.
Supt Johnson thanked Christchurch residents for their cooperation, adding it had been a "serious and traumatic" event.
Newshub.
