Hazardous materials found in car after police pursuit in Auckland

A 39-year-old man faces charges of dangerous driving, failing to stop, and possessing materials and equipment with intent. The charges follow a pursuit where a vehicle was found to contain hazardous materials after being stopped in Epsom.

The incident began around 5pm on Sunday when the vehicle failed to stop near Karaka and travelled north for approximately 30km. Police monitored the vehicle via an Eagle helicopter before deploying spikes near Market Road to bring the car to a halt near the Great South Road intersection.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews from Remuera and Auckland City arrived at the scene at approximately 6.26pm. While the exact nature of the substances was not officially released, a witness reported a firefighter mentioned a suspected explosive was inside the car.

The vehicle was safely contained by Fire and Emergency New Zealand and moved to a secure facility for forensic examination. The man is due to appear in the Manukau District Court today.

How it developed

• Mon 5 Oct, 11:38amThe driver has been identified as a 39-year-old man facing specific charges and is due in Manukau District Court.

Where reports differ

• One report states the area was cordoned off and motorists should avoid it, while a later report says crews have left and the area is safe.
• A witness claimed a firefighter suspected an explosive was in the car, though the official nature of the materials remained unknown.

Compiled from reports by 1News, Stuff, NZ Herald and RNZ.