“Police blocked the northern end of the Waterview Tunnel and again signalled for the motorcycle to stop,” Burgess said.
“It did not stop and fled back into the tunnel.”
Burgess said the motorcyclist collided with a police vehicle inside the tunnel a short time later.
“The motorcyclist was transported to Auckland Hospital in a serious condition.”
One lane in the tunnel was blocked as the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination, but all lanes have since re-opened.
“Police advise motorists to expect delays on the Southwestern Motorway and surrounding roading network,” Burgess said.
The matter would now be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) as is standard practice.
The video obtained by the Herald shows a marked police car driving the wrong way in the tunnel, attempting to stop the motorcyclist, who swerves around the vehicle and speeds off.
A witness, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Herald a man dressed in a red sweatshirt on a motorcycle was blocking the tunnel, causing traffic to come to a standstill.
“We passed by some police cars ... I assume the guy has been arrested,” the witness said.
At 2.55pm, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said a crash was blocking the left lane in the southbound Waterview Tunnel.
Lanes had reopened about 5.20pm.
