A man has been arrested after allegedly pelting cyclists competing in a race in Hawke’s Bay.
Police said the incident took place on April 19 on Mutiny Rd, Poukawa during a Council-sanctioned cycle race.
Occupants of a black ute were seen throwing bottles from the vehicle towards participants in the race, Acting Detective Sergeant Steve Leonard said.
“A young person was hit by a bottle and fell from their bike – fortunately they were not seriously injured.”
An 18-year-old man, who police say was a passenger in the ute at the time of the incident, was today charged with two counts of assault with a weapon.
He is due to appear in Hastings District Court on Friday, May 23.
The vehicle involved has been seized by police, who are “following lines of inquiry to speak with the driver”, Leonard said.
“We would like to take this opportunity to remind road users that cyclists are legal road users under the Land Transport Act, who will on occasion ride two abreast, particularly in organised ride or race situations.
“Please be patient and overtake when safe to do so for all parties, ensuring everyone arrives at their destination safely – preserving Hawke’s Bay’s reputation as a proud cycling region.”