Police monitoring up to 100 dirt bikers spotted heading through Auckland; five arrested

Police are following a group of up to 100 dirt bikers as they pass through southeast Auckland this afternoon heading towards the city.

At least five people have been arrested so far and police are warning of further enforcement action against anyone who breaks the law.

One witness told the Herald the group went over Waipuna Bridge on the South Eastern Highway about 3.30pm, and were followed by a group of police officers.

While others said the group numbers at least 100, the witness estimated there were up to 80 riders.

“Most of them were doing wheel stands or weaving across the two lanes of the bridge. They do this about once a week. Most have no helmets too.

“A few were raising an arm as if maybe flipping the bird or whatever. Lots had bandannas over their faces.”

A man is taken into custody after police apprehended a gang of dirt bike riders on Puketutu Island in Mangere. Photo / Hayden Woodward

She said the bikers were followed a couple of minutes later by two police cars with their lights and sirens on.

“They all looked like young, adult males. Certainly loud!”

Another witness told the Herald she counted 11 police cars following the dirt bikers going up Mahunga Dr in Favona about 3.30pm.

“Most were without helmets, doing wheelies and across both sides of the road.

“I’d estimate about 60. I’m now hearing a lot of sirens and helicopters.”

One witness told the Herald about 60-80 dirt bikers were doing wheelies and weaving across two lanes.

A group of large dirt bikers were spotted driving through Auckland, heading towards the central city.

Police said they were following a large group of riders on dirt bikes driving dangerously around the Counties Manukau area this afternoon.

Inspector Kerry Watson said several resources, including the police Eagle helicopter, had been deployed in response to the group.

“We do not want to put the public at risk or put the riders at any more risk than they’re putting themselves in. However, there is a significant police response, and we will be taking action when we can do so safely.”

Watson said the group were seen running red lights, riding on the wrong side of the road and breaking the speed limit.

“This is not only concerning, but it’s putting other road users and members of the public at extreme risk of harm. Most of the riders are not wearing appropriate gear, and if something goes wrong, someone could easily lose their life.”

Police have made five arrests so far and expect to make more, Watson said.

“Police’s message is clear: If you ride your dirt or off-road bike where you shouldn’t, or ride in an anti-social manner, we will do everything in our power to identify you and take enforcement action.

“That could include seizure or impounding of the bike.”

It is illegal to ride a dirt bike on the road unless it is roadworthy and has a current warrant and registration.

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