Police car rammed after 22km Auckland pursuit, officer injured

A police officer has been injured after a cop car was rammed during a dramatic pursuit across Auckland.

Shortly before 2pm, police say they received information about a stolen vehicle travelling towards Auckland's CBD on Tamaki Drive.

"The vehicle then failed to stop for police on Quay Street and a pursuit was initiated.
The pursuit was abandoned shortly after due to the manner of driving," police said.

Shortly before 2.20pm, police say the vehicle rammed a police car on Knights Close in Rothesay Bay on Auckland's North Shore. Photo / Mark Smith

"Police attempted to re-engage in the pursuit one further time but abandoned immediately and the Police Eagle helicopter was dispatched to monitor the vehicle from above.

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A witness who saw part of the incident on Quay St said the driver "went on the footpath to get away from the cops".

"The vehicle was later observed travelling north on the Northern Motorway and Eagle continued to provide ground units with updates on its location," police said.

Shortly before 2.20pm, police say the vehicle rammed a police car on Knights Close in Rothesay Bay on Auckland's North Shore.

"A police officer has sustained injuries as a result and is being examined by paramedics, though the injuries are thought to be minor."

The driver is in police custody, and is likely to face charges.

Motorists have been told to avoid the area.

"Please use an alternative route until further notice. Expect some traffic delays in the surrounding area," Auckland Transport says.