Driver, passenger face reckless driving charges

The driver and the passenger of a car that allegedly led police on a chase through the Waikato are both facing charges relating to reckless driving.

Hamilton police alleged the passenger had been giving directions to the driver, and in what they describe as an unusual move, have charged him also.

Acting Sergeant Myles O'Donnell said the driver told them he was from Auckland and had to rely on his passenger's local knowledge while allegedly evading police.

The passenger also allegedly encouraged the driver to speed up to get away, Mr O'Donnell said.

"The male passenger has been charged on an aiding reckless driving charge, it's not something someone is charged with very often," he said.

Police allege the pursuit began shortly after midnight last night when the Nissan Skyline car was seen by a police patrol doing 'donuts' on Greenwood St, Hamilton.

Mr O'Donnell said despite it raining heavily, the driver allegedly sped off along Avalon Drive, prompting the police to give chase.

"Given the conditions it was very lucky there were very low traffic volumes because the speed the driver was going could be fairly described as 'excessive," he said.

Police said the driver eventually pulled over north of Ngaruawahia.

He faces several charges in relation to boy racer legislation, reckless driving and failing to stop.