Senior Sergeant Craig Ellison said in a statement the 27-year-old alleged driver put members of the public at significant risk with his driving, which damaged at least two cars and caused 16 separate complaints to police yesterday.
“It is extremely fortunate that nobody was seriously injured or killed.”
Police said they first signalled the blue Ford Falcon to stop in the Hurunui District about 3.20pm yesterday after detecting it travelling at speed.
The driver failed to stop, but it was not pursued at that time.
“As the vehicle travelled south, we received a number of reports from concerned motorists.
"Those reports, combined with traffic camera footage, allowed us to track its movements through Culverden, Amberley and Waikuku towards Harewood,” Snr Sgt Ellison said.
“Despite police not following the car, the driver was seen undertaking vehicles [passing on the left], driving through red lights, travelling the wrong way around roundabouts, and colliding with several vehicles while forcing his way through intersections."
The vehicle was found abandoned in Alexandra St in Richmond about 4.30pm.
“A police dog unit located the alleged driver a short distance away and he was taken into custody. Our inquiries remain in the early stages, but we are considering a number of serious charges relating to the incident."
Snr Sgt Ellison thanked members of the public who contacted police.
"Their information was instrumental in helping us track the vehicle and bring the incident to a safe conclusion.”
Police are appealing for dashcam footage or video recordings of the distinctive blue Ford Falcon.
Anyone who could help was asked to file a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number P066754732.
- Allied Media
