A long police chase in Taranaki last night has led to the appearance of four young people in court today.

Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson

Charges including aggravated robbery and reckless driving have been laid against the two males and two females

aged between 15 and 20.

A 72-year-old woman and her 48-year-old daughter were dragged from their vehicle at a central New Plymouth intersection last night.

The two women suffered abrasions and cuts in the carjacking and were taken to hospital, before being later discharged.

Police said the carjack happened at about 8pm at the intersection of Rainsford and St Aubyn Streets.

The car was later spotted near Oakura, but failed to stop for police and a pursuit began.

Police chased the car along State Highway 45 for about 40km before road spikes were used near Pungarehu.

The driver finally stopped at Rahotu, 16km north of Opunake, with four police cars left damaged in the pursuit.

Two males aged 17 and 18 and two females aged 15 and 20 were arrested and appeared in court this morning.

Police said the victims were left shaken by the carjacking and were being provided with support.

Any witnesses with any information have been asked to call New Plymouth Police.