Police car collides with Audi on busy rural road

File photo / NZ Herald

A police car and an Audi have collided on a busy rural road in Waikato, leaving the occupants of both vehicles with minor injuries.

Waikato Police describe the incident as "deeply regrettable''.

The crash happened shortly before 2.30pm today on SH26 at Eureka, near the intersection of SH1B, said District Deployment Manager, Inspector Jeff Penno.

"Initial indications are the crash occurred while an officer was carrying out traffic enforcement and has manoeuvred his car to try and stop a speeding motorist.

"The driver of the Audi A4 involved in the crash was taken to Waikato Hospital by ambulance as a precaution after he stated he had soreness in his chest. The Police officer was shaken but unhurt.

"Policing by its very nature is an inherently risky profession and it is always deeply regretful when an incident occurs that involves a member of the public. Police will be working closely with the other driver to ensure today's matter is concluded appropriately.''

Mr Penno said police are crediting the modern safety standards in both late model cars for the occupants of both vehicles escaping with minor injuries.

"The crash is currently being investigated by the Serious Crash Unit and has been reported to the Police's Professional Standards Unit.''

Mr Penno said this crash is a timely reminder for all road users to ensure they maintain situational awareness while out driving.

"Road Policing officers are highly trained professional drivers but, as we've seen this afternoon, situations can occur where even the most experienced drivers can find themselves involved in incidents.

"Police will certainly be looking at what steps we can take to improve our staff's training and driving and we ask other road users to consider doing the same.''