Policewoman struck by car before chase

A stolen car struck a policewoman and then drove on its wheel rims after running over road spikes during a high speed chase near Taupo this morning, say police.

The officer, who had stopped and was speaking to the driver after he allegedly drove off without paying for fuel, was struck on her left side.

She suffered minor bruising and a sore left knee but did not require medical help, said Sergeant Greg Weston of Taupo police.

The incident happened about 7.30am on State Highway 5, just north of Wairakei.

Police pursued the car for about 40km from Wairakei toward Rotorua, at speeds of up to 170km/h, he said.

Police put down road spikes in front of the car, which punctured three tyres. The car drove on for another 9km, during which time one tyre disintegrated before the driver pulled over.

Mr Weston said a 19-year-old Lower Hutt man will appear in Taupo District Court tomorrow, facing nine charges arising from the incident.

The charges include theft, reckless driving, driving while disqualified (third or subsequent), failing to stop for police, driving with excess breath alcohol and aggravated assault.

Further charges may be laid.

- NZPA