A swarm of dirt bikers in Auckland’s Mission Bay has led to a fresh police warning over dangerous driving.
A 26-year-old man was arrested and a number of bikes were impounded after the incident yesterday.
Police responded to “a significant number of calls” about the group’s “complete disregard for others” at about 5pm.
“Police responded to reports of a group of about 15 riders congregating at Achilles Point in Mission Bay,” Inspector Jim Wilson said.
“Upon police arrival, the group left the area at speed along Tamaki Drive and were observed riding in a dangerous manner, crossing the centre line and riding on the footpath.
“Police attempted to engage with some of the stationary bikes, some chose to flee the area, and police did not pursue.”
Police used a helicopter to monitor the convoy as it travelled through St Heliers towards Pakuranga.
At the intersection of Southern Cross Rd and Kohimarama Rd, one of the rider’s bikes broke down. They abandoned the bike and police impounded it.
But the group continued to travel “in a very concerning manner and at speed”, police said.
“It was lucky no other road users were harmed during this incident,” Wilson said.
“The group eventually arrived at a service station on Puhinui Rd in Mankau where one rider attempted to leave the area on foot.
“He was arrested a short time later without further incident.”
The man has been charged with failure to remain and dangerous driving.
Failure to remain relates to failing to stop when signalled by an enforcement officer, or failing to remain stopped.
Another bike linked to the group was later impounded on Piako St in Ōtara.
“Police received a significant number of calls for service in relation to the group’s poor driving behaviour and we thank those who reported this brazen action to us,” Wilson said.
“These riders show a complete disregard for others and we will continue to hold these riders to account and impound their bikes.
“Yesterday’s actions will continue to be investigated and we will utilise all available avenues around enforcement.”
He said there is zero tolerance for “this dangerous driving that puts other motorists and members of the public at risk”.