A rider on a stolen motorcycle has died in the south of Auckland this afternoon, police said the crash occurred after the motorbike sped away from a patrol car.
Police said there were looking for a stolen motorbike in the Pukekohe area when a unit observed the bike travelling along Helvetia Rd at about 12.20pm.
The police car made a U-turn in an attempt to signal for the vehicle to stop, however the rider “accelerated off at speed” before the police car activated its lights and sirens.
Another police unit spotted the bike crashed on McShane St a short time later.
Police said the rider was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“There is now an investigation underway, which will work to establish all the facts surrounding this tragic incident.
“This includes notifying the Independent Police Conduct Authority, as is standard procedure.
“We are also working to support those affected and their families as well as our staff who were involved.”
The road around the scene of the crash was closed, with nearby Pukekohe North School advising parents to call the office if they were having difficulty picking up their children.
As part of the investigation, police said they would like to hear from witnesses who may have been in the area at the time, or prior to the incident occurring.
Information could be provided via 105 or online.