A gang member wanted by police for firearms and drug offending is being sought by police in Wellington.

Tama Michael Rawhiti, 26, a known gang member, is also wanted for breach of his parole.

Rawhiti has been living in Upper Hutt and has connections to Whanganui and Palmerston North. Police say he is considered dangerous and should not be approached.

Detective Sergeant Christiaan Barnard said Rawhiti had been out of prison for about a week, after serving time for family violence.

He was last seen yesterday in Upper Hutt. At that time he was wearing a gang patch, although police would not specify what gang he belonged to.

"He is a dangerous individual. We have concerns and want to locate him reasonably soon.

"We have reason to believe there's a strong likelihood of him carrying a firearm.

"He could be, at this stage, anywhere between the Hutt Valley, Whanganui and Palmerston North."

Anybody who sees Rawhiti or has information about his whereabouts should contact Lower Hutt police on 04 560 2600, or provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

- © Fairfax NZ News