9 Jan 2015

Police target vehicle crime in Far North

5:46 pm on 9 January 2015

Eight young people face a raft of charges following a rash of vehicle-related crimes in the Bay of Islands.

Police say they began an operation targeting car crime on Tuesday after several thefts in the area.

Two 17-year-olds face vehicle charges after a car chase near Towai , and a 15-year-old has been referred to Youth Aid after police pursued a stolen car near the Opua Marina.

A 12-year-old is in the care of Child, Youth and Family after another car-theft on Thursday, when police also arrested a 15-year-old.

Another 15-year-old was arrested for receiving a stolen vehicle and attempted unlawful taking.

Two 17-year-olds also face charges.

Senior Sergeant Peter Robinson of the Northland Police said the operation had led to a fall-off in car-related crimes.