Police act after dirt bike antics

AUCKLAND: Police investigating a group of motorcyclists filmed pulling wheelies and doing burnouts on Auckland roads have arrested one person and say more prosecutions are likely.

Hundreds of dirt bike riders rode through busy streets, public parks and motorways around parts of Auckland over the long weekend.

Tamaki Makaurau road policing manager Inspector Scott Webb said one person was arrested and charged on Saturday with dangerous driving and ‘‘following strong leads, further prosecutions are likely’’.

‘‘Police were aware of the dirt bike ride and monitored the situation at the time, and wish to thank people for the large number of calls that were received relating to driving offences involving the group.

‘‘Followup investigations with CCTV footage and information from the public and other means are enabling police to now identify more of these riders and their dangerous behaviour.’’

He said the actions of the riders were dangerous and showed a blatant disregard for their own safety as well as the safety of other motorists.

‘‘The organisers of this event also need to take accountability for ensuring such events are safe and lawful and we will be looking to discuss this with them.’’

At least one video that has emerged on social media showed a man pulling a wheelie through the Waterview Tunnel.

He is seen lifting his bike up on to the back wheel before carrying out various manoeuvres, including standing on the seat. — The New Zealand Herald