Porirua man arrested after boat escape attempt ends in harbour chase

A Porirua man is back in custody after attempting to evade arrest by fleeing from Police in a boat, triggering a pursuit across Porirua Harbour involving Wellington’s Maritime Unit.

Police officers attended the Mana Twin Bridges public boat ramp about 8.30am to arrest the 27-year-old for allegedly breaching bail conditions. Instead of complying, the man reportedly jumped into a boat and attempted to flee across the water.

Shore-based officers immediately reported the escape, prompting a response from the Police Maritime Unit vessel, Lady Elizabeth IV, which was operating nearby at the time. The crew began searching for what was described as a “red and old” boat and located it roughly 20 minutes later off the Plimmerton coastline.

Police say the skipper allegedly ignored instructions to stop. When the Police vessel approached with emergency lights activated, the man reportedly turned his boat around and sped toward Porirua Harbour, with officers in pursuit.

During the chase Maritime Unit staff coordinated with ground Police units, providing updates on the boat’s movements as it headed back toward shore. Officers prepared to continue the pursuit on land using the Police vessel’s tender, but ground units had already positioned themselves nearby.

The man was located hiding under a boat shed on the southern side of the twin bridges at Paremata and was taken back into custody about 15 minutes after the pursuit began.

Police say it is uncommon for boat operators to attempt to flee from maritime officers, noting most boaties comply with directions.

The man has been charged with breach of bail and escaping custody. A further charge of dangerous boating is being considered. Fisheries Officers are also making enquiries following an inspection of the vessel.

He is expected to appear in the Porirua District Court in the coming days.