Police are working to locate Samir Derek Belhajjam, 30, who has escaped custody in Taupō this afternoon.

"He fled from a Police transport vehicle at the court on Story Place about 6pm," a police spokesperson said.

Police said he was wearing green prison-issue shorts and tee-shirt, along with an orange hi-vis vest.

"Residents may notice an increased Police presence as staff work to locate him."

Anyone who sees him or has information on his whereabouts is asked not to approach him, but instead to call 111 immediately.