Police say a newly-purchased sports motorbike has been clocked going twice the speed limit along Desert Road north of Waiouru.
Wanganui-Ruapehu area prevention manager Inspector Phil Weaver said a road policing unit recorded it travelling south along State Highway 1 around 3:15pm on Sunday.
Insp Weaver said a police checkpoint was set up on SH1 just outside the Waiouru Military Base.
It was signalled to stop, however it failed to and continued to travel at high speed away from police.
"The vehicle was then observed by an off-duty police officer pull into a rest area just north of Taihape and the rider was later arrested," Insp Weaver said.
"This man's manner of driving was utterly reckless and may have had potential to cause serious harm to a number of people.
"We hope his arrest brings reassurance to our community that we hold those choosing to engage in this dangerous behaviour to account."
A 45-year-old man was charged with three driving-related offences, the bike was impounded and he will appear in the Taihape District Court at a later date.
