Teen in stolen e-bike 7km dash on busway, Northern Motorway through football match on North Shore

A teen evading police on a stolen electric bike rode at excessive speeds on the busway, along the Northern Motorway and through a football match on Auckland’s North Shore.

It started with an aggravated robbery on Tuesday, where police said the alleged male offender stole an electric trail bike at knifepoint outside of a fast food restaurant on Coliseum Drive, Albany.

Waitematā East Area Prevention Manager Inspector Aron McKeown said the bike was driven across the car park towards Albany Mall, “and out of sight”.

The Police Eagle helicopter had been in the area for another matter, when the crew became aware of the unfolding situation.

“Eagle responded and located the bike being driven at excessive speed on the Northern Busway southbound.

“The bike has continued to be tracked by Eagle, as it exited at Constellation Station, making its way onto the Northern Motorway.”

The helicopter kept an eye on the 15-year-old rider while police on the ground held back.

McKeown said the bike was seen getting off the motorway at Tristram Ave, and heading for Beacroft Park.

“He has cut through a football game being played at the time, before heading towards Milford.”

The “reckless run” finished when the teen fell off the bike on Bevyn St, said McKeown.

He suffered no injuries but “did find himself in handcuffs and under arrest”, he said.

The teen has been charged with aggravated robbery, reckless driving and possession for supply of cannabis.

He will be appearing in the North Shore Youth Court today.

“We are ensuring the young victim is being provided by support after this unsettling event,” McKeown said.

“I’d like to acknowledge all the frontline staff, Eagle and our CIB investigators for their work in responding to this incident.”