22/08/2026
An officer remains in Wellington Hospital, surrounded by family, after a critical incident in Manawatū overnight.
The officer, a Constable based in Palmerston North, was deploying road spikes on Kairanga Bunnythorpe Road about 2am, when the vehicle hit him, throwing him several metres.
Central District Commander Superintendent Dion Bennett said the officer’s colleague at the scene suffered minor injuries but immediately provided support while other units urgently responded.
“The circumstances of what occurred remain under investigation. From our initial enquiries, the vehicle appeared to be stolen.”
After fleeing, the vehicle was monitored as it travelled out of the city. The officer was positioned behind his patrol car preparing to deploy spikes at a driveway between Rongotea Road and Gillespies Line, Superintendent Bennett said.
“The suspect vehicle was travelling eastbound on the wrong side of Kairanga Bunnythorpe Road when it struck the Police vehicle, and then the two officers. The seriously injured officer was thrown into the side of a car that was parked in the drive.”
The two youths, in their mid-teens, were taken into custody at the scene. Police are due to speak to the alleged offenders and charges are being considered, Superintendent Bennett said.
“We are extremely grateful the outcome was not worse and that is thanks to the efforts of those who responded. The officers’ colleagues were faced with an appalling situation and I’m incredibly proud of them.
“I would also like to acknowledge the determination of the air rescue crew, who transported our officer to Wellington in spite of challenging weather conditions. Everyone went above and beyond to save a life last night, and it made the difference.”
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers visited the injured officer in Wellington Hospital this afternoon and praised the staff involved in saving the officer’s life.
“Their response was fast and effective, and they provided the best care they could while ambulance staff got to the scene. No amount of training can prepare you for a situation where you are trying to save the life of a colleague and friend, and they acted with exceptional professionalism.
“This incident highlights the risk my staff face while doing their jobs to keep their communities safe and I would like to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved last night.
“This evening, I will be travelling to Palmerston North to speak with the staff there and meet some of those involved in this incident and see what support we can provide them.
“We are humbled by the support from members of the community and people across the country, and on behalf of my staff, I thank everyone who has sent kind messages of support.”
The Police Critical Incident Investigation is ongoing, and the Independent Police Conduct Authority has been notified.
