Police say they had fireworks shot at them while responding to an illegal street racing event in Hawke's Bay on Saturday night.
Road policing manager Inspector Angela Hallett confirmed the use of fireworks in a police statement.
"Fireworks were used by this group against law enforcement during their activity, and we took strong measures to keep our staff safe and reduce harm to innocent members of the public," said Hallett.
Hallett said police received over 30 calls about the event and responded with a "heavy enforcement presence throughout the night," which involved specialist personnel from Waikato, Central, Auckland, Bay of Plenty and Wellington.
Approximately 200 cars were stopped, with many drivers in breach of their license conditions. At least nine vehicles were impounded on the night and drivers were also breath-tested.
"A number of drivers were over the legal breath alcohol or blood alcohol level and summonsed to Court, and some arrested."
Hallett said police would not tolerate drivers who put themselves or others at risk.
"Our priority was to keep the public safe. We do not tolerate drivers doing burnouts as they cause immense damage to our roads and risk the lives of themselves and innocent members of the public on the road," Hallett said.
