Officer in hospital after ute allegedly rams patrol car twice

Author: NZ Herald,
Publish Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2026, 1:32pm

The police officer suffered moderate injuries and was taken to hospital. Photo / NZME

A police officer is being assessed in hospital after a ute allegedly rammed their patrol car twice during an early morning pursuit on Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast.

The white ute first came to police attention about 4.30am after it was allegedly seen travelling at up to 100km/h, double the speed limit along Whangaparāoa Rd, near Manly.

Waitematā North area response manager Senior Sergeant Carl Fowlie said a patrol unit signalled for the vehicle to stop, but the driver allegedly ignored instructions before conducting a U-turn and ramming the patrol car and fleeing.

The unit involved followed the driver towards Gulf Harbour before the vehicle turned and struck the patrol car head-on, causing significant damage.

The officer suffered moderate injuries and was taken to hospital, where he is currently being assessed.

The suspect then allegedly abandoned the ute on Tiri Rd, approximately 3km away and fled on foot. Police Eagle tracked the man from above as he scaled nearby fences, throwing items from his satchel before abandoning the bag.

The man attempted to flag down passing vehicles but was unsuccessful and was quickly apprehended. Officers retraced his steps and located the satchel and other discarded items, including methamphetamine, scales and thousands of dollars in cash.

“This was an incredibly dangerous act which could have resulted in serious harm to the officer who was doing their job,” Fowlie said.

“Police have zero tolerance for reckless behaviour on our roads or towards our staff, and we will hold these offenders to account.”

A 33-year-old man has been charged with reckless driving, aggravated failing to stop, injuring with intent to injure a first responder, failing to stop and ascertain injury after a crash, and possession of methamphetamine.