Police disrupted a large gathering of vehicles in Manawatū last night, arresting four people and issuing dozens of infringements in what they called Operation Golf.
Operation Golf Targets Anti-Social Road Users
The operation targeted an “anti-social road user event” involving around 200 vehicles concentrated around the rural outskirts of Palmerston North and Horowhenua, according to Manawatū area commander Inspector Matenga Gray.
Police staff from Wellington, Whanganui, and Manawatū collaborated to interrupt multiple gatherings and discourage further participation.
Two police vehicles sustained damage from projectiles thrown by attendees after they blocked a section of State Highway 1 near Rongotea Rd. No officers were injured during the incident.
“I’m proud of how our staff reacted to this violence,” Gray said.
Gray stated that officers successfully dispersed the gathering within an hour, processing drivers through checkpoints while minimizing disruption to highway traffic. Bailiffs also seized several vehicles.
Four individuals were arrested for offences including breach of bail, failing to stop for police, and resisting police. Two vehicles were impounded by court bailiffs, seven by police, and seven more were ordered off the road.
Police issued 48 infringements and suspended multiple driver licenses. Final enforcement numbers are still being confirmed.
Authorities are reviewing photos and videos from the event to identify additional offenders. Gray stated that those involved can expect further action and a “zero‑tolerance approach” from police in the coming weeks.
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