Two youths were critically injured and a third suffered moderate injuries after a crash in north Auckland overnight.
Police said the vehicle was stolen, and it was being observed by police as it drove into a closed road and crashed in a ditch near Kumeū.
“The vehicle had earlier failed to stop after being observed travelling in tandem with another stolen vehicle near the Waterview Tunnel after midnight,” Acting Superintendent Dave Glossop said. “The Police Eagle helicopter initially maintained observations of both vehicles travelling south into Māngere.
“Both vehicles separated and Eagle continued observing one vehicle, which came to a stop on Puketutu Island with both occupants arrested without incident.
“The second vehicle travelled into Onehunga and was eventually signalled to stop on Galway St.”
Instead of stopping, the driver sped off, police said, and the vehicle was not pursued.
“Police maintained observations of the vehicle through the camera network as it headed west on State Highway 16 towards Kumeū,” Glossop said.
“A police unit was in the area as it entered the township and could see the vehicle still travelling at speed in the distance.
“The stolen vehicle failed to follow diversions for roadworks and entered a closed part of the road near Huapai, crashing into a ditch.
“Three young people in the vehicle have been injured.”
The front seat occupants were critically injured, while a third occupant suffered moderate injuries. All three were taken to hospital.
None of the injuries were thought to be life-threatening, Glossop said.
“Police are now investigating the circumstances of the wider incident, and the Independent Police Conduct Authority will be notified.”
