Hoon dirt bikers sparked Eagle Helicopter operation

Police have launched an urgent hunt for a pack of hoon dirt bikers over the weekend after a wild afternoon rampage through South Auckland that put children, motorists and entire neighbourhoods at risk.

One rider, a 25 year old man from Ōtara, has already been arrested and charged with reckless driving and aggravated failing to stop. He is only the first, with dozens more now being targeted as investigators sift through CCTV footage and public tip-offs.

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Emergency calls began pouring in shortly before 3.45pm Sunday, reporting riders popping wheelies, swarming roads and charging into oncoming traffic across the streets of Ōtara.

The convoy of bikers later surged toward Tamaki Drive and Bastion Point, growing to as many as 40.

Witnesses described the hoons blasting across sports fields at motorway speeds and skimming areas where children had been playing just moments earlier.

Image: Interior cockpit of a Police Eagle helicopter mid operation, viewed from behind the pilots’ seats. (Supplied / New Zealand Police)

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Dozens of officers and the Eagle helicopter were thrown into the operation working to split the group and prevent further danger to the public.

Service stations across the region were notified by authorities and placed on high alert in case the riders attempted to refuel and regroup. The group finally scattered around 5.45pm.

Investigators are trawling through historical camera footage across a range of sites and intersections, including dashcam footage frame by frame, determined to identify every rider involved.

Anyone caught will face enforcement action and their bikes will be seized. The arrested man’s dirt bike has already been impounded, and officers warn more will follow.

Members of the public with footage or information are urged to report it through 105.police.govt.nz using reference number P065318019, or by calling 105. Tips can also be made anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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