A police officer has been injured after a fleeing driver rammed a patrol car in the Far North this afternoon.

Photo: RNZ / Claire Eastham-Farrelly

Police tried to stop the man who was speeding on Inland Road on the Karikari peninsula.

But they abandoned the chase because of his dangerous driving, and set up road spikes to stop him.

Senior Sergeant Brian Swann said the man stopped - but reversed at speed directly into the police car behind him - hitting two other cars in the process.

The officer's injuries were minor, but the patrol car was extensively damaged.

Mr Swann said fleeing driver incidents were incredibly dangerous.

"The drivers are putting not only themselves at risk but also police staff and innocent members of our community going about their daily lives."

The man, 45, will appear in the Kaitaia Court tomorrow on multiple charges including assault with a blunt instrument and possession of drug utensils.

He's being kept in custody overnight.