Stray pig ‘Kevin Bacon’ who caused motorway mayhem set for new start in Taranaki

A fugitive pig known for blocking lanes on Auckland’s north-western motorway and evading armed police will be taken to a new home today.

The pig – nicknamed Kevin Bacon – drew national attention when he was spotted multiple times on the motorway for two weeks.

The efforts of armed police, Auckland Council animal control staff and Waka Kotahi were in vain – much to the chagrin of motorists.

While the pig frustrated searchers, animal management officer Jade Cathcart told RNZ at the time the road hog was not only smart but fast.

In the end the temptation of some bananas proved too much and he was lured into a trap on 3 August.

The pig has now been adopted by the Sutton Road Animal Sanctuary in New Plymouth, and renamed “Reggie” by its vegan owners.

Photo: RNZ / Louise Ternouth

Aaron Neary who led the animal management team’s efforts said it was a happy ending for the errant pig.

“He’s definitely a lucky swine, I think he’s the luckiest pig in Auckland to end up where he has.”

At one stage, armed police were hunting for the pig after numerous sightings.

Neary’s team also recalled how they initially failed to capture him.

“We had another go; this was when he was lying in the sun just enjoying himself, almost mocking us really and we couldn’t get anywhere near him.

“We eventually did manage to set a trap and catch him safely.”

The pig after his capture by council staff.
Photo: Supplied/ Auckland Council

The trap was one usually kept for dogs. It had some bananas which he seemed to enjoy.

Neary said there had been effective collaboration between the police, animal management and Waka Kotahi for the mission.

“He was a risk to the traffic there so I’m glad we got him safely.”

As for the pig’s nature, after his initial surprise at finding himself trapped he has been friendly.

“He’s warmed to people very quickly, he’s got a very sweet little face, he eats out of our hands so I think he’ll be very happy where he’s going. He’s a very famous little piggy.”

Council staff believed the pig might have jumped off the back of a truck before setting off on his adventures.