Police signalled for the vehicle to stop; however, the driver fled and the pursuit was then abandoned because of the manner of driving, the spokesperson said.
After initial inquiries, police determined the vehicle had previously been stolen.
A short time later, police were informed the fleeing vehicle had crashed into a barrier, the spokesperson said.
The New Zealand Transport Agency said at 11.40am the highway was closed in both directions between Horonui Rd and Te Mahanga Rd, Poukawa, for the serious crash unit to attend the scene.
The road was reopened under stop-go traffic management at 12.45pm.
A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said they were told of the crash at 11.10am and sent two ambulances.
One person in a serious condition was transported to Hawke’s Bay Hospital.