Tractor stolen after police pursuit ends in crash

Photo / Thinkstock

Waikato police are searching for a tractor that was stolen after a pursuit ended in a crash last night.

Police were called after a Nissan Skyline was seen driving dangerously in Te Aroha at around 11pm.

The pursuit crossed the Hauraki Plains and ended in Orini when the Nissan crashed into a paddock.

The occupants, who did not appear to be injured, fled on foot and a police dog was unable to find them.

This morning a farmer living in the area noticed his John Deere tractor was missing.

"We suspect the occupants from the car have stolen the tractor and we appeal to the public to report any sightings of it to police," said Senior Sergeant Pete van de Wetering.

"The tractor is not registered for the road and could be a hazard so police are urging drivers anywhere in this area to be careful."

The tractor is green with a front end loading device and a fertiliser spreader attached.

Police are unsure whether the Nissan was also stolen and would like to hear from anyone with information on either vehicle.

Waikato police can be called on 07 8586200.