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Police were justified in pursuing a speeding driver who shot at officers in Whangārei two years ago, the Independent Police Conduct Authority has found.
The pursuit on 2 September 2020 was called off when the driver shot a rifle out of his car's window and was resumed once the car was spiked.
The driver again fired two shots at the police patrol car, with one bullet hitting a headlight.
Authority chair Judge Colin Doherty said the pursuit was well-managed and resolved without serious injury or loss of life.
The driver pleaded guilty and was sentenced to seven years in prison.
Northland District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill said it was a dynamic and fast-evolving situation for the officers involved, who made it their priority to ensure that the matter was resolved safely.
