Gavin John Preston, 30, of Victoria, appeared before Kempsey Local Court to face charges of obtaining benefit by deception, reckless and furious driving, possessing a shortened firearm and possessing a loaded firearm in a public place.

He also faced two counts of common assault.

Police allege Preston filled his car with petrol at a Shelly Beach service station about 7pm on Saturday and drove away without paying.

Preston, who was in the car with his 36-year-old partner, was approached by two men about the theft later at the Donut near the Pacific Hwy.

It is alleged Preston got in his car and drove away quickly, losing control and skidding off the highway into a ditch.

The pair approached Preston and his partner Suzanne Lesniewski, also of Victoria, at their car a second time and demanded money for the fuel.

Preston allegedly pointed a loaded sawn-off double-barreled shotgun at the man and his friend and threatened them.

Police came and arrested the couple.

Lesniewski is facing charges of obtaining benefit by deception and possessing ammunition without a licence.

She is to appear before Port Macquarie Local Court on May 12.

Preston will appear before Port Macquarie Local Court on a date to be set.