Police acknowledge and accept the findings of the Independent Police Conduct Authority released today concerning a fatal unjustified pursuit three years ago.
On 13 July 2023, a road policing checkpoint was being carried out on Lincoln Road in Henderson.
A Police motorcycle officer noticed a man weaving his own motorcycle through traffic and he was signalled to stop.
He failed to stop and a pursuit at high speed ensued, ending when the motorcycle crashed near Tauhinu Road, Greenhithe and resulting in the rider’s death.
The IPCA has found the pursuit was unjustified and the officer’s assessments of the risks were fundamentally flawed.
“At the outset we acknowledge the man’s family and express our condolences for their loss,” Acting Superintendent Simon Walker, Relieving Waitematā District Commander, says.
Following the man’s death, Police carried out a critical incident investigation into the events that occurred.
“After a thorough investigation, the officer was charged with dangerous driving causing death,” Acting Superintendent Walker says.
In April 2025, the officer was convicted of driving a motor vehicle in a dangerous manner and disqualified from driving for six months.
He has since resigned from New Zealand Police.
“The public rightly expect Police staff to exercise sound judgement and uphold the highest standards of conduct while carrying out their duties,” Acting Superintendent Walker says.
“Incidents such as this have a significant impact on all those involved and serve as a reminder of the importance of sound judgement and effective risk assessment in all aspects of policing.”
