Unlicensed teen driver leads police on chase

Two tyres were shredded by police spikes. FILE

An unlicensed driver refused to stop for police because he didn't want his car impounded - now he has two shredded tyres, a towage fee, up to three driving charges and his car has been impounded.

When Kaikohe police stopped a car early yesterday one of the passengers, a 16-year-old boy, asked the officer how to go about getting a licence. The officer gave him some advice and forms sent him on his way.

Later that day, about 1.30pm, another officer saw the same boy driving on Recreation Rd so signalled for him to stop.

The boy took off, clipping another car at the intersection of SH12 and Rankin Rd, then leading police towards Ohaeawai at speeds of up to 130km/h with two passengers on board, Senior Sergeant Brian Swann said.

Police deployed spikes midway between Kaikohe and Ohaeawai, puncturing two tyres. The car continued a short distance then the driver tried to flee on foot. A struggle ensued before he was arrested.

The boy will be referred to Youth Aid. It is likely he will also be charged with failing to stop, driving without a licence, and dangerous driving.

Mr Swann said the youth had put other road users and his passengers at risk. The passengers, a boy and a girl in their mid-teens, would not be charged.

■ Police want to talk to the driver of the car, a dark 1990s sedan, that was clipped on Rankin Rd. Call the Kaikohe station on (09) 405 2960.