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An "irresponsible, idiotic" Harley Davidson rider rode his bike into a bar at a hot rod show and did wheelspins for 30 seconds before driving out and crashing into three young boys, police say.
Kumeu Sergeant Malcolm Wallace today hit out at the offender in the Saturday incident at the town's annual hot rod show.
He said the man rode his Harley into a pavilion being used as a bar.
"For more than 30 seconds the rider completed several burnouts inside the bar. Such was the degree of traction generated on the concrete floor that palls of putrid smoke rapidly filled the venue," Mr Wallace said.
"The rider then rode out the front entrance on one wheel and almost immediately lost control, injuring three boys aged eight to 10 years, who were among the crowd of over 200 assembled outside."
The three boys were taken to North Shore Hospital with abrasions but were later released.
"They were very lucky not to have suffered further serious injury," Mr Wallace said.
Mr Wallace said police quickly arrested the man after the incident, otherwise he may have faced a different sort of justice.
"The angry crowd were preparing to take assertive action and the scene could have become very nasty.
"This rider demonstrated extremely reckless, unacceptable behaviour. Those who witnessed the incident were appalled and horrified."
A 42-year-old Glen Eden, Auckland, man is to appear in Waitakere District Court on Thursday, charged with driving with excess breath alcohol, reckless driving charges, and substantial loss of traction - an offence carrying a maximum penalty of three months' jail, a $4500 fine and six month disqualification.
- NZPA
