Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Twelve people, the majority being teenagers, were arrested across Auckland overnight for stealing vehicles.
In a statement, police said the first incident occurred before 7.30pm on Tuesday where a group of young people were seen trying to open car doors in the car park of New Lynn's LynnMall.
Inspector Kelly Farrant said they managed to break into one vehicle and took off in it.
With the Eagle flying overhead, spikes were laid out in Avondale, and the group soon adandoned the car in Kelston.
Farrant said the alleged driver, a 12-year-old male, was taken into custody and work was continuing to find the others involved.
"The driver will be dealt with by through the Youth Aid process."
Further south and some hours later, a stolen vehicle was seen on Flat Bush Road after 11.30pm.
Police did not pursue the vehicle, but again, the Eagle watched from above and monitored the vehicle's movements.
Inspector Gaylene Rice said it was travelling "at high speeds" and succesfully spiked on multiple occasions heading towards Takanini.
Seven young people were taken into custody - including the 14-year-old alleged driver.
He is facing the Manukau Youth Court for unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, dangerous driving and failing to stop.
"The other six occupants were all aged between 12 and 17 and will be dealt with by way of Youth Aid," Rice said.
A third incident shortly before midnight occurred in Ōtara where a speeding stolen vehicle failed to stop for police.
Rice said the vehicle crashed into a fence and two people, including the 16-year-old alleged driver, took off on foot.
They were both taken into custody.
Finally, in the early hours of Wednesday, police were made aware of another stolen vehicle travelling at speed, this time in Ōtāhuhu.
The Eagle was deployed again and saw two people get out of the car at an address and walk away.
Rice said a dog handler found a 45-year-old man and 33-year-old women in the area and they were arrested.
The man is facing a dangerous driving charge in the Manukau District Court, while the woman has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, Rice said.
