Whangārei man gets All Blacks comparison after tackling suspect mid-police chase

A Whangārei man is being praised for turning a morning coffee stop into a high-stakes takedown after tackling a fleeing vandal to the ground. 

Police say the incident began around 7:40 am on Monday, when they received reports of a disorderly man moving along Cameron Street. 

According to Whangārei Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Rene Rakete, the man was observed kicking shop windows and throwing outdoor furniture as he moved through the area, with one shop front reportedly smashed during the spree. 

When officers approached the man, he immediately fled, catching the attention of an eagle-eyed patron outside Honey’s Coffee Shop on Vine Street.

CCTV footage from inside the shop shows the man taking the offender down. 

"This member of the public has seen the alleged offender running towards him and tackled him to the ground, allowing the officers to safely take him into custody. " Senior Sergeant Rakete said.

Rakete acknowledged that while the police generally don’t encourage the public to take matters into their own hands, this individual’s quick thinking was helpful.

“I’d like to acknowledge this man’s actions; his intervention prevented further damage and ensured the matter was brought under control quickly,” said Rakete. 

"I also wouldn’t be surprised if he gets a call-up from the All Blacks after watching that tackle," Rakete added.