An application is being made for a man who cut off his electronic monitoring bracelet to be sent straight back to prison.

Police have 19-year-old Zane McVeigh in custody, after he allegedly broke the terms of his parole last night.

His escape sparked a large police response in Wellington, where he was arrested this afternoon without incident.

Corrections spokesman Paul Tomlinson said the offender will now face charges for breaching his conditions and a recall application will be made.

He said the close relationship Corrections has with police ensured an early alert and quick resolution.