Photo: 123RF
An argument between two motorists spiralled into a violent series of events, culminating in vehicle damage, threats and a liquor store robbery, police say.
The incident began unfolding in Auckland's Glenfield on Thursday, when a 22-year-old man got in a "verbal altercation" with another driver.
"The man ... then followed the victim's vehicle in his own car, throwing several items out of his window at the vehicle, including alcohol containers and a hockey stick, which damaged the vehicle," Waitematā east response manager acting senior sergeant Andy Godsalve said.
"He continued to follow the victim's vehicle for several kilometres, causing them much concern."
The man then drove to a Northcote liquor store and told the worker there that he had a knife, Godsalve said.
From there, his actions allegedly grew more violent.
"He picked up of bottle of alcohol and smashed it on the floor before allegedly stealing a further eight bottles of alcohol, worth over $400," Godsalve said.
"Police were quickly on the scene, with officers witnessing the man pull a car jack tool from his pants and allegedly threaten the liquor store worker with it.
"He was arrested as he exited the store with the alcohol, and later blew an excess breath alcohol reading of three times over the legal limit."
The man has been charged with wilful damage, theft, threatening behaviour, possession of an offensive weapon, driving while disqualified, and driving with excess breath alcohol.
He appeared in the North Shore District Court on Friday and was due to reappear on 14 November.
"The public has the right to feel safe, and I'm very happy the alleged offender will be held to account for his actions," Godsalve said.
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