A driver allegedly drove onto an Auckland beach and then went for a dip in his attempts to evade police officers last night.
Police in Auckland's Ōrewa had observed the man, 36, allegedly driving dangerously along Marine Parade around 6.50pm.
Waitematā North area prevention manager Senior Sergeant Roger Small said officers signalled for the vehicle to stop but the man fled "at speed".
"Units quickly abandoned the pursuit while another nearby patrol unit observed the vehicle as it drove onto Ōrewa Beach," Small said.
"The driver has then got out of the car and run into the water, swimming quite a distance offshore."
Small said the police Eagle helicopter kept an eye on the man in the water, while two members of the Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving Club headed out with police onboard.
"Staff managed to take the male into custody after a 30 minute impasse.
"This was excellent work from all staff involved, managing to bring what was a dangerous incident to a swift and safe conclusion for everyone."
The man will appear at North Shore District Court today charged with failing to stop, driving while disqualified and reckless driving.
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