Driver's charmed existence over: Judge

A police chase through central Wanganui ended when police parked their car in front of the offender's vehicle.

Police spotted Warren William Ranginui speeding in a car along Dublin St late in August, police prosecutor Sergeant Stephen Butler told the Whanganui District Court yesterday.

When police activated their lights and sirens, Ranginui sped away, fleeing through red lights at the intersection with Victoria Ave and the intersection with Liverpool St.

Officers continued to pursue Ranginui as he accelerated away, but when he reached another intersection he stopped and waited at the lights until they turned green, Mr Butler said.

Ranginui then turned on to London St and drove slowly, continuing at a "very slow pace" until the police patrol vehicle stopped in front of him, forcing him to stop as well.

He told officers that he "didn't think police would see him driving", Mr Butler said.

He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, and refusing to allow a blood test.

Judge David Cameron said Ranginui had led a "charmed existence", with three drink-driving convictions for which he had received minor sentences.

"The chickens are going to come home to roost for you, Mr Ranginui, I'm afraid," Judge Cameron said.

"You grossly overstepped the mark this time."

He ordered a pre-sentence report with home and community detention appendices, but stressed "all options" were open to the court for Ranginui's sentencing on November 18.