Two injured as car flees police

A man fleeing from a police patrol in New Plymouth last night was arrested after driving through an intersection and smashing into another car.

Senior Sergeant Selwyn Wansbrough said the 28-year-old local man failed to stop when directed by a traffic alcohol patrol on Mill Rd at about 11.15pm.

The man sped away in his Holden Commodore before smashing into a Mitsubishi Mirage at the intersection of Pendarves St and Elliot St.

Mr Wansbrough said two teenagers were in the Mitsubishi, one of whom was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries.

A 25-year-old passenger in the Holden was also taken to hospital after the car lost control and hit a power pole and fence.

Mr Wansbrough said the police car chasing the Holden had slowed before the crash and was about to abandon the chase when the crash happened about 300m ahead of it.

The driver of the Holden was still in the driver's seat when police arrived.

He was due to make an appearance in New Plymouth District Court today to face charges including driving while disqualified, dangerous driving and failing to stop.

Mr Wansbrough said the man was also processed for drink-driving and was likely to be charged in relation to that once blood test results were made available.

- NZPA