Stuff
Police deployed spikes to stop a stolen vehicle near Taupiri on Monday.
A motorist in a stolen vehicle refused police signals to stop, continuing even after their tyres were spiked and they had to drive on rims.
They lost a tyre before coming to a stop on State Highway 1B near Taupiri.
The drama began in Whitianga with a car theft on Monday afternoon.
The vehicle was located by police about 2.20pm near Waiomu. The motorist failed to stop when directed, forcing an officer to take evasive action to avoid being hit. The officer was unharmed.
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Waikato District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird said a pursuit was not initiated and Eagle tracked the vehicle as it continued south on SH25.
“The vehicle was successfully spiked about 3.15pm, near Pūkorokoro/Miranda.
“It continued driving, travelling on its rims and eventually losing a tyre near State Highway 2 at Mangatangi.”
A pursuit was authorised as the vehicle approached Hampton Downs due to the risk to the public, Bird said.
The vehicle lost control soon after and came to a stop as it tried to negotiate a roundabout near State Highway 1B’s northbound off-ramp to Gordonton Rd.
Bird said two people were subsequently apprehended.
“The occupants received minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.”
The SH1B/Gordonton Rd roundabout northbound was closed for around two hours from 4.30pm while a scene examination was carried out and oil cleared from the road.
Bird said charges were being considered and inquiries were ongoing.
In a tweet, Waka Kotahi advised motorists there could be delays and said to followthe directions of emergency services.
