Men from Whangārei police pursuit where shots were fired remanded in custody

Two men arrested after a police chase in Whangārei during which officers were allegedly shot at have appeared in court. Photo / NZME

Two men who led police on a chase where officers were allegedly shot at have been remanded in custody.

No pleas were taken when Tama-Parei Himiona Parata, 24, and Jeffery Cassidy, 23, appeared in the Whangārei District Court on a number of driving and firearms-related charges.

Both were allegedly in a car that police attempted to stop about 11.30pm on Wednesday in Ōtangarei before a pursuit began.

During the chase, several gunshots were allegedly fired from the vehicle at the following police and the pursuit was abandoned.

However, police managed to locate the car in Onerahi and it was successfully spiked.

The pursuit was re-engaged and a further two shots were allegedly fired at police. The vehicle eventually came to a stop on Tarewa Rd and both men were arrested. There were no injuries.

A firearm was allegedly found in the vehicle.

Parata and Cassidy will reappear on Wednesday next week when they are expected to apply for bail.

Cassidy is facing two charges of using a firearm against law enforcement officers, one each of driving in a dangerous manner, failing to stop and one excess breath alcohol over 400mg.

Parata faces two charges of using a firearm against law enforcement officers and one of driving in a dangerous manner.