Woman's erratic driving appals police

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A woman's driving on SH1 north of Wellington on Friday night allegedly became so erratic that members of the public moved to stop her when she pulled over and tried to flee.

Police allege the woman collided with the concrete barrier on the Aotea onramp before reversing, carrying on and allegedly weaving across all three lanes on the motorway, heading towards Jonsonville.

Police Highway Patrol senior constable Bruce Pauling said they received a number of calls about the woman's erratic driving.

Mr Pauling, who attended the incident, praised several members of the public for containing the vehicle and the 35-year-old woman when she stopped suddenly north of Johnsonville.

"The driver's blatant disregard for the safety of other motorists is appalling," he said. 

"Her apparent decision to drive after consuming excessive amounts of alcohol or drugs put herself and other motorists at great risk."

"The outstanding actions of the public prevented this person from continuing to drive and likely causing a senseless fatality."

Police were now awaiting blood test results taken under the newly-introduced Compulsory Impairment Test, Mr Pauling said.

- © Fairfax NZ News