NZ Post delivery driver injured trying to stop alleged van theft in Hastings

An NZ Post delivery driver was injured while trying to stop the alleged theft of his van on Monday morning in Hastings. Photo / File

An NZ Post delivery driver was injured when he tried to stop the alleged theft of his van as he made deliveries in Hastings on Monday morning.

Police received a report of a van being stolen from Russell St, Hastings, about 9am.

An NZ Post spokesperson said a Courier Post van had been targeted by thieves.

"A contract delivery driver was injured in the incident and is currently receiving treatment," the NZ Post spokesperson said.

"NZ Post will support the driver and their family as they make their recovery."

A St John Ambulance spokeswoman said one ambulance and one rapid response vehicle were sent to the scene, with one patient in a moderate condition transported to Hawke's Bay Hospital.

A Hawke's Bay District Health Board spokeswoman confirmed the man, in his 40s, is now stable.

A spokesman from Cafe at Westermans, on Russell St, Hastings, said several customers who were sitting inside witnessed the incident.

"It was scary by the sounds of it for the driver," they said.

The van was found about 9.30am dumped on Riverslea Rd, Hastings.

Police took two people into custody, charging a 21-year-old man with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. The other person has not been charged.

The 21-year-old man was due to appear in Hastings District Court on Monday.

An NZ Post spokesperson added: "We are investigating the contents of the van to work out what, if anything, was taken, and will then notify customers if necessary."