Police cars damaged in chase

Three police cars were damaged after they were rammed during a pursuit around Auckland City this morning.

The chase started at about 5.10am when a car was seen driving on the Hopetoun Bridge in the central city with no number plates.

It was then driven the wrong way down Hobson St before being chased out towards Green Lane and then back into the city and again onto Hopetoun Bridge.

One police car was rammed and put out of action, forcing another to take over. The second car was then rammed and a third damaged.

A suspect tried to run away but was caught by police.

A 35-year-old man has been charged with a number of offences, including burglary, unlawfully taking a car, resisting police, failing to stop and reckless driving. It is also alleged he had two outstanding arrest warrants against him.

The man was due to appear in the Auckland District Court this morning.

A policeman suffered leg injuries and was being treated in hospital but was expected to be released today.

- NZHERALD STAFF