A man unsuccessfully tried to carjack two vehicles as he tried to escape police across Auckland during the early hours of this morning.
The incident unfolded when a hatchback drew police attention for its driving just before 3am, prompting officers to attempt to stop it in Papatoetoe.
The vehicle allegedly fled police at "high speed" but was not pursued.
Camera operators monitored the vehicle and relayed its movements in the Clover Park area.
The Eagle helicopter was deployed and tracked the vehicle as it headed towards the south-western motorway.
“The car has allegedly been driven at excessive speed towards the airport, before heading north towards central Auckland,” Senior Sergeant Steve Albrey said.
The vehicle was spiked in the Mt Eden area and came to a stop, where the driver got out.
“He has continued his brazen offending, attempting to carjack a passing vehicle," Albrey said.
“Fortunately, the driver was able to reverse to safety, forcing the man to run back to his vehicle.”
He continued driving and reached Khyber Pass Road, where he was stopped again.
The man then allegedly tried to carjack another passing vehicle, forcing the driver out.
“Our staff were soon on scene, promptly taking this man into custody and preventing any further harm.”
During the search of his car, methamphetamine paraphernalia and a bat were found.
The 33-year-old now faces several charges, including two charges of assault with intent to rob, possession of an offensive weapon, driving while suspended, dangerous driving, and failing to stop.
He was due to appear in the Manukau District Court today.
"There was every potential this man’s actions could have resulted in someone being seriously hurt,” Albrey said.
“Our staff have worked hard this morning to bring this incident to a safe conclusion and taking the man into custody.”
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