A dangerous driver who allegedly stole a car and drove it through Albany while intoxicated is now facing a raft of charges.

Late last night, Police were notified a vehicle had been stolen from Channel View Road, Takapuna.

Waitematā East Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant CJ Miles, says Police then spotted the vehicle travelling north on Wairau Road at about 1am this morning.

“Units, including the Police Eagle helicopter, have flooded the area, however the vehicle wasn’t located.

“But just a short time later, the vehicle was seen on Albany Expressway driving erratically and at more than twice the posted speed limit.”

Senior Sergeant Miles says Eagle observed the vehicle driving dangerously, crossing onto the wrong side of the road and at excessive speed.

“The vehicle has continued travelling through the Albany area before eventually coming to a dead-end street at St Andrews Way where it appeared the driver was attempting to take another vehicle.

“Police arrived quickly and took the man into custody without further incident,” she says.

Breath alcohol procedures were carried out and the man was allegedly over the legal driving limit.

“It’s extremely lucky no one was injured or seriously hurt as a result of this reckless behaviour.

“It’s clear he had little regard for anyone else and I’m pleased we could put a stop to this before anyone else was put at risk.”

A 25-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court today charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and driving with excess breath alcohol.

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