Photo: 123RF
Four teenagers have been injured after crashing into a ditch while avoiding police in Northland.
Police were alerted to reports of a stolen vehicle travelling on Puketona Road, outside of Paihia, around 1.20am.
A police unit later sighted the vehicle travelling along Puketona Road, in the direction of State Highway 10, Northland District Commander, Superintendent Matt Srhoj said.
"The unit turned around and signalled for the vehicle to stop, but it failed to do so.
Officers continued to observe the vehicle's movements and it was later seen turning onto Te Ahu Ahu Road, he said.
Police later found the stolen vehicle crashed in a ditch with four teenagers inside.
The occupants, aged between 14 and 17, all suffered moderate injuries and were taken to Bay of Islands and Whangārei hospitals.
Police said charges would be considered.