A driver collecting a late-night food order on Auckland’s popular K’Rd strip was left without a vehicle after an opportunistic thief allegedly swiped the driver’s car. 

Auckland City Police senior sergeant Tony Turner said the vehicle was stolen from Karangahape Rd while the driver was busy picking up the meal at 12.25am. 

Turner said camera operators tracked the car’s movements as it travelled on New North Rd through to Morningside before continuing into Kingsland. 

“Police units, supported by the Eagle helicopter, responded quickly and were able to block the vehicle in.” 

Two people inside the car were taken into custody. 

Turner said a 41-year-old woman was due to appear at Auckland District Court today charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and driving with excess breath alcohol. 

He also said this served as a reminder to would-be car thieves that police and their partner agencies would “continue to keep an eye out for suspicious activity, and we will respond accordingly”. 

“This is a great example of staff working hard to hold those responsible to account for this type of crime in our communities.” 

Rachel Maher is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. She has worked for the Herald since 2022.