Wellington man leads police on 20 minute car chase

A man led police on a 20 minute car chase in the Hutt Valley today before clipping the pursuing patrol car and coming to a stop against a brick wall.

Sergeant Gordon Russell said police noticed beer bottles being flung from the Subaru as it drove on High St in Lower Hutt about 10am, and gave chase when it failed to stop as requested, dodging more flying beer bottles on along the way.

During the chase the driver of the Subaru managed to steer clear of road spikes in Upper Hutt, but came to a stop after doing a 180 degree turn and heading back past the patrol car on Barton Rd, clipping it on the way, before coming to a stop soon afterwards.

Mr Russell said the 24-year-old driver abandoned his car and ran away, but was tracked by a police dog and arrested.

He had outstanding warrants for his arrest and now faces charges including driving under the influence of alcohol, dangerous driving and driving while disqualified.

The police car was left with minor damage.

- NZPA