89km chase ended with road spikes

An Auckland man led police on an 89km chase stretching from Taupo to just shy of Waiouru yesterday.

Wayne Manutai Hira, 37, was finally stopped by road spikes as he slowed for a series of bends.

Taupo Police Constable Gareth Edwards told NZPA Hira was first spotted on Lake Terrace, Taupo's main street, after a Mobil station reported the vehicle leaving without paying for fuel.

Hira was alone in the car, having dropped his partner off in Rotorua.

Police were already looking for the vehicle after it was believed to have been involved in two previous drive-offs, including one on Tuesday at a Taupo BP.

"Once we initiated the pursuit he didn't want to pull over," Mr Edwards said.

Three patrol cars followed Hira along the Desert Road, conscious that it was drizzling and the road was slippery.

"There were a few moments when the speed was greater than 100km/h obviously, but generally the driving was okay," Mr Edwards said.

After 45 minutes they decided it was time to deploy road spikes, stopping Hira near Waiouru.

He was due to appear in Taupo District Court today charged with reckless driving, failing to stop, driving while forbidden, three counts of theft and breach of bail.

- NZPA