Waikato police are warning of the heavy penalties for pointing lasers at aircraft, after reports one was targeted at a plane over Huntly on Wednesday.
A person found guilty of aiming a laser at an aircraft in flight could face up to a year in prison or a fine up to $10,000.
On Wednesday night police received reports of a purple laser being pointed at a plane over Huntly, from somewhere near the Waikato River.
They're also investigating a similar laser-pointing incident in Hamilton on September 13. They don't think the incidents are connected, Senior Sergeant Dean Anderson says.
"Direct eye exposure to a laser beam can result in momentary 'flash blindness' with possible after images causing distraction," he says.
"This can put the lives of the pilot, any passengers and other people in the vicinity at serious risk."
Police are encouraging anyone who has information about the laser being pointed at the aircraft on Wednesday night to contact them.
Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
Reported laser strikes:
Newshub.
