A Tauranga man today led police on a merry chase first on foot and then using a bike and finally a surf ski.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Police were called to MacDonald Street this morning after a report of a suspicious vehicle and a man leaving it in a hurry.
A short time later, the 37-year-old man involved spotted officers and fled on foot before stealing a bike.
After a failed attempt at upgrading to a stolen car, the man ran to the beach where he stole a surf ski and headed out to sea.
After he fell into the water, he was rescued then arrested by police in an inflatable lifeguard boat.
Police said the man has multiple warrants for firearms and drug-related offences.
