Dangerous murderer escapes from prison

Police are hunting a convicted murderer who escaped from a central North Island prison early this afternoon.

Staff at Tongariro Rangipo Prison south unit noticed Christopher Thomas Watkins was missing about 1pm, acting senior sergeant Neale Saunders of Turangi police said.

Watkins, who was serving a life sentence for a 1988 murder, had last been seen at midday.

Police considered Watkins dangerous and he should not be approached, Mr Saunders said.

Police had not idea where he was heading at this stage and asked anyone travelling through the central North Island to be wary of hitchhikers.

Any residents in the area should be vigilant with securing property and vehicles, Mr Saunders said.

Police want to hear about anything suspicious.

Watkins was described as an average build Caucasian male, about 165cm tall.

He was last seen wearing a green polar fleece and a denim jacket.