Police say their Eagle helicopter was repeatedly lasered while flying over Māngere. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police
Police say their Eagle helicopter was repeatedly lasered while flying over Māngere.
An Auckland man is to appear in court accused of targeting the police Eagle Helicopter with a laser pointer.
The Eagle was repeatedly lasered while flying over Māngere at about 12.20am on Tuesday.
Technology in the helicopter was able to identify the offender's address, and officers on the ground moved in to arrest him.
In a statement the police Air Support Unit's officer in charge, Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen said the behaviour was unacceptable and could put people's lives at risk.
"The lasering of any aircraft in flight could cause serious harm to the crew. The Police Eagle helicopter is out there working hard for the protection and safety of all Kiwis."
The 49-year-old is expected to appear in Manukau District this month, charged with endangering transport.