A 37-year-old Tauranga man who led Police on a chase across Mount Maunganui has been arrested.

Police were called to MacDonald Street about 10.30am with a report of a suspicious vehicle and a man leaving it in a hurry.

The man was returning to the vehicle about 12.30pm when he spotted Police and fled on foot.

He ran across a local golf course where he stole a bike before attempting to swap it for a car at a nearby house.

When he failed to steal the car he fled toward the beach and took a surf ski.

“The man has led us on a chase through a number of properties, commercial and residential, using various modes of transport,” Senior Sergeant Chris Summerville says.

“Unfortunately for him, he didn’t steal a paddle with the surf ski and quickly tipped into the water.

“At this point it’s become a water rescue and the Armed Offenders Squad has gone out on an inflatable rescue boat with lifeguards from the local surf club.”

The man was pulled from the water and arrested.

“I’d like to thank the public for their assistance — we received numerous calls updating us on the man’s location. The surf club also provided invaluable support.”

The man, who has multiple warrants for firearms and drug-related offences, is likely to face further charges.

ENDS

© Scoop Media