A Tauranga man used every possible mode of transport available to get away from police on Thursday.
Officers were called to MacDonald St, Mt Maunganui at about 10:30am, where the 37-year-old had been seen leaving a "suspicious vehicle" in a hurry.
Two hours later, he returned to the vehicle but fled on foot as soon as he spotted police.
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He ran across a nearby golf course where he stole a bike and took off with it. He then tried to swap the bike for a car at a nearby house, but failed to successfully steal it.
With police in hot pursuit, the man had no option left but to take to the water. He ran to Omanu Beach where he discovered a surf ski kayak.
Unfortunately, his getaway didn't quite work out as planned, as he forgot to steal a paddle. He was "quickly tipped into the water", according to Senior Sergeant Chris Summerville.
Both the Armed Offenders Squad and lifeguards from Omanu Surf Club boarded an inflatable boat and went out to rescue the would-be sailor.
He was scooped from the sea and promptly arrested. He had multiple warrants out for firearms and drug-related offences and will probably face further charges.
Snr Sgt Summerville has thanked the Mt Maunganui public for their support as well as the rescue assistance of Omanu Surf Club.
Newshub.
