Car stolen from Whitianga stopped after police chase including Eagle Helicopter and Spikes

Two people have been apprehended by police after a fleeing driver incident in today.

The incident began when a car was stolen from a Whitianga address early this afternoon, and closed State Highway 1B at Taupiri for a period of time. A police officer located the vehicle about 2.20pm, near Waiomu, however according to Waikato District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird, the officer had to take evasive action when the car drove at them upon being signalled to stop. Thankfully the officer was unharmed.

Under police pursuit rules, a pursuit was not initiated and the Police helicopter “Eagle” tracked the vehicle as it drove south on State Highway 25.

The vehicle was successfully spiked about 3.15pm, near Miranda. It continued driving, travelling on its rims and eventually losing a tyre near State Highway 2 at Mangatangi.

According to District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird, as the vehicle approached Hampton Downs, a pursuit was then authorised due to the risk to the public. However, a short time later the vehicle lost control and came to a stop as it tried to negotiate a roundabout near State Highway 1B’s northbound off-ramp to Gordonton Rd. The occupants received minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.

The road remains closed while a scene examination is carried out and oil is cleared from the road.

Enquiries are continuing.