A 34-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly stealing a vehicle in Point Chevalier before being involved in a multi-vehicle crash on Auckland’s northern motorway near Dairy Flat.
The crash closed State Highway 1 to northbound traffic.
At around 2.40pm, police responded to Walmer Road, Point Chevalier, after a man “allegedly attempted to steal a vehicle from an elderly woman” before stealing a vehicle from a “second person on the same road”.
Police said no serious injuries were sustained, and it maintained observations of the vehicle to the northern motorway with the assistance of the Air Support Unit and traffic cameras.
Police inspector Daniel Meade said a pursuit was not initiated due to safety concerns. Police instead attempted to spike the vehicle, however the driver continued.
“At around 3pm the driver came to a stop following a multi-vehicle crash where the vehicle has rolled.”
Two people, including the offender, received moderate injuries.
“While the offender was travelling along the northern motorway he has allegedly damaged a number of vehicles and knocked a motorcyclist off of their bike.
“The Serious Crash Unit have completed a scene examination and the road is due to be reopened within the next hour.”
Charges are being considered for the 34-year-old man and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.
Police added the incident will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.
Earlier, live traffic data showed heavy traffic near and around Albany. Motorists travelling north were urged to use alternative routes, including State Highway 16.