Police have arrested a Napier man believed to have been behind the wheel of a car which hit and injured a police officer before speeding away on Thursday.

Robbie Richards, 28, was linked to a silver Honda CRV involved in the incident where an officer was struck at a drink-driving checkpoint between Napier and Hastings.

The car had crossed a centreline on Farndon Rd just off State Highway 2 near the entrance to Farndon Park, Clive about 12.30am.

It is understood the officer had been waving an illuminated wand trying to stop the driver, who was possibly trying to avoid the checkpoint a short distance away on the highway between the intersection and Clive Bridge.

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Police said the vehicle did not stop, but sped off and crashed shortly afterwards as it headed towards Pakowhai Rd. One of the passengers was captured but others from the vehicle, including Richards, had allegedly fled.

He was arrested on Saturday night at a house in Hastings and was due to appear in Napier District Court today in relation to two unrelated warrants.

No decision had been made as to what charges he would be facing in regard to events on Thursday.

Police have not revealed the injured constable's identity.

A Hawke's Bay Hospital spokeswoman confirmed he was discharged on Saturday, after being treated for injuries to his leg as well as grazing and cuts to his face and arms.

It was a traumatic incident which caused harm to someone who was only there to help, detective sergeant Jason Crowe, of Hawke's Bay CIB said.

He said it was a "terrifying experience" for the constable, who was just doing his duties.