“We’re asking for assistance from the public so we can locate these riders as soon as possible before they kill someone or themselves. Dozens of staff and the Eagle helicopter were diverted to try to split the group up, while police also worked with local petrol stations in case the group attempted to refuel. It wasn’t until 5.45pm that the riders disappeared. Watson said police were combing through CCTV footage to identify those involved in this “display of stupidity”. Sign up to The Daily H, a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 01, 2026 17:00 UTC