Toddlers assaulted and taken on terror ride

Two Lower Hutt toddlers were allegedly assaulted and taken on a 60km terror ride by their father.

Constable Chris Coleman said the man allegedly drove off with the children after a domestic dispute at Otaki yesterday.

Mr Coleman said drivers reported seeing the car speeding and being driven dangerously, and the driver assaulting the children.

When the car stopped the man was arrested.

After medical checks, the children - aged about 18 months and 2 1/2 years - were placed in Child, Youth and Family care.