Police officer charged with dangerous driving after Wellington waterfront pursuit sent terrified pedestrians scattering

A Wellington waterfront pursuit in April has ended with a police officer facing a dangerous driving charge. Photo / File

A police officer has been charged with dangerous driving following a dramatic Wellington waterfront pursuit, in which pedestrians reported having to leap to safety.

The April 8 incident is alleged to have involved a car fleeing from police along a wide waterfront walkway, and being pursued by police.

Wellington area commander, Inspector Chris Bensemann confirmed a police officer had been charged with dangerous driving following an investigation.

An Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation into the incident was continuing.

In the meantime, the officer remained on full duties and police would not comment further as the matter was before the court, Bensemann said.

Fairfax reported the officer, who has name suppression, appeared in Wellington District Court, and would reappear later this month.

The driver of the car being pursued has also been charged.