An investigation's found Police used excessive force arresting a Rotorua man over a stolen car dispute in 2021

Two officers followed the man driving erratically to a motel.

When questioned, he refused to hand over the car keys - and was arrested for obstruction.

One officer pushed the man against a wall, struck him with an elbow, and punched him several times - before getting him in a patrol car.

The Independent Police Conduct Authority's found the officer had no legal power to make him hand over the keys - and the arrest was unlawful.

Police say there are learnings to reflect on, but both officers remain in their jobs.