A 33-year-old man has been charged after allegedly ramming a police car twice, injuring one officer, on Auckland's Hibiscus Coast this morning.
Waitematā North area response manager Senior Sergeant Carl Fowlie said a white ute first caught the attention of police at 4.30am after it was seen speeding along Whangaparāoa Rd, Manly.
He said the vehicle allegedly reached speeds of up to 100km/h in a 50km/h zone.
"A patrol unit signalled for the vehicle to stop but the driver ignored instructions. The driver then conducted a U-turn and rammed the patrol car before fleeing."
Officers followed the driver towards Gulf Harbour before the vehicle turned and struck the patrol car head-on, causing significant damage.
"The officer received moderate injuries and was transported to hospital where they are currently being assessed.
"The suspect then left his vehicle on Tiri Rd and fled on foot," Fowlie said.
The Eagle helicopter tracked the man from above as he scaled nearby fences and threw items - including methamphetamine, scales, and thousands of dollars in cash - out of his satchel, before abandoning the bag entirely.
The man attempted to flag down passing vehicles without success. He was then apprehended.
"This was an incredibly dangerous act which could have resulted in serious harm to the officer who was doing their job," Fowlie said.
A 33-year-old man has been charged with reckless driving, aggravated failing to stop, injures with intent to injure - first responder, failed to stop and ascertain injury after crash, and possess methamphetamine.
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