Driver arrested after Christchurch police deploy spikes

File photo / NZ Herald

Police have arrested a 23-year-old driver after a seven and a half minute pursuit in north-west Christchurch.

It began when a car was spotted travelling at high speed in St Albans around 9.45am.

Police deployed spikes at the intersection of QEII and Main North Road.

They say the driver braked heavily to avoid the spikes, and reversed into a patrol car.

He then continued driving at speed and on the wrong side of the road.

He was apprehended after stopping outside a funeral home, where it's believed he was to attend a funeral.

Inspector Dave Lawry says there are indications the driver had initiated the pursuit deliberately, possibly to coincide with the funeral.

He's likely to face charges relating to dangerous driving and failing to stop.