Two people have been arrested following an armed carjacking and police chase through Manawatū.
Central District prevention manager Inspector Brett Calkin says police received a report of a high-risk offender in a stolen vehicle in Tangimoana at 3:15pm on Sunday. The person then stole another vehicle from a member of the public and presented a firearm towards them. This person wasn't injured but is shaken, Insp Calkin says.
The offender failed to stop for police after they were signalled to and a pursuit began, with the help of the armed offenders squad and air support.
The car was spiked on State Highway 56 south of Palmerston North and the driver and passenger were arrested at the scene.
"This was a very serious, fast-pace incident and we acknowledge it was very distressing for the community," Insp Calkin says.
"We want to reassure the wider Manawatu community that there is no risk to their general safety."
Enquiries into what exactly happened are ongoing and an update on charges will be given when possible.
