Kerikeri Police seek driver of stolen vehicle

Police are seeking the driver of a stolen 4wd vehicle that rammed a marked police patrol car about 7.00 am this morning on Waimate North Rd, Kerikeri.

The stolen vehicle, a 4 x 4 maroon Nissan Terrano, had earlier been reported by a member of the public, who saw it swerving all over the road.

It was located by police and pursed for a short time before the pursuit was called off due to the dangerous driving of the offender.

About 10 minutes later a police patrol vehicle was travelling west on Waimate North Road when the stolen vehicle came around the corner travelling in the opposite direction.

The driver of the stolen vehicle immediately drove into the rear passenger side of the police car. He then drove off sliding down a short bank about 50 metres further on from where the police vehicle was struck.

The stolen vehicle and police car both suffered moderate damage. The police officer was shaken, but unhurt.

The driver of the stolen vehicle ran off and has yet to be located. He is described as Maori of stocky build and aged about 20 years.

Anyone with information regarding the offending driver's whereabouts can contact Kerikeri Police on 09 407 9211 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For further information contact Northland Police Communications Officer Sarah Kennett on 09 430 4525 or 027 494 1214