Auckland crime: Teens’ 40km getaway ride from after liquor store robbery ends in arrests at Huntly

Four teenagers have been arrested after they went on a 40km intercity crime spree south of Auckland overnight.

The youths aged 16 and 17 fled police on a half-hour getaway drive, travelling 42km before the vehicle was spiked and arrests made near Huntly.

Counties Manukau South Area Commander Inspector Joe Hunter said the offending began just before 1am when a vehicle was stolen from Calder Cres.

“The owner of this vehicle became aware of the theft and contacted Police immediately enabling us to deploy our people to the area.

“The group of male offenders left in this vehicle, travelling with a ute, which was also stolen.

“A short time later both of the offenders arrived at a nearby liquor shop where the offenders have smashed a window to enter the store.”

Hunter said a range of merchandise from within the Market St West store was taken.

“They left the scene in the vehicle stolen from Calder Cresent and loaded into the ute which they had parked nearby.

“On arrival, our staff sighted the ute and signalled it to stop but it failed to do so.”

Eagle had also arrived in the area and was providing observations of the offenders’ movements, Hunter said.

“A short time later offenders were seen abandoning the ute and getting into the other stolen vehicle.”

Hunter said the vehicle continued south, all the while being monitored by Eagle overhead.

“Spikes were successfully deployed near Huntly, and pleasingly all four were then taken into custody without further incident.”

All those apprehended were aged between 16 and 17, Hunter said.

One was held in custody overnight.

Hunter said police continued to work hard to respond to offending against businesses in the community and holding offenders to account.

“In this case, a key element to our response was the quick contact from our community to advise us of the initial car theft. Our focus today will be on supporting the victims here where possible.”

Akula Sharma is an Auckland-based reporter who joined the Herald in 2022. She has previously worked at the Gisborne Herald.