Police in Northland say three incidents of drivers fleeing from officers overnight put them and the public in danger.
All three incidents occurred in a two hour period, with the first chase, in Whangarei, shortly after midnight.
Police said officers initially gave chase, but abandoned their pursuits because of the high speeds and roading conditions.
In one incident near Dargaville, a patrol car pursuing a four-wheel-drive vehicle towing a trailer slid off the gravel road and overturned.
Acting Inspector Riki Whiu of the Northland police said fortunately the officer wasn't injured.
He said all the drivers were eventually caught and now faced various charges.
Mr Whiu said in each case the reasons for fleeing were pathetic and the ensuing pursuits put everyone at risk.
