First it was roaming horses ... now Opotiki has a wandering emu

The large bird was seen dodging cars, kids on bikes and local law enforcement on Sunday in the Bay of Plenty town.

The large bird had been chased by roaming dogs and was found on the road in a distressed state.

Police were called and the pet bird was walked back to safety.

Opotiki District Council has told Local Democracy Reporting the emu is well-known in the town, having lived there for 15 years.