A 45 year old Hamilton man has been arrested and charged with failing to stop and dangerous driving after he fled from Police on the Taupo Bypass, State Highway One Taupo this morning.

Sergeant Steve Denny says a Taupo Road Policing patrol attempted to stop the driver after he was checked travelling at speed, but the vehicle continued south towards Waitahanui at speeds reaching 170km/hr.

Sergeant Denny says Police abandoned the pursuit at this point due to concerns about safety, with the decision made to use other means to try and stop the driver.

"Police were in the process of deploying road spikes, however, the driver saw the activity and executed a U-turn, heading north back to Taupo.

"Police re-engaged with the fleeing driver and the vehicle continued to flee north on State Highway 1."

Sergeant Denny says road spikes were deployed a further two times, with the vehicle eventually coming to a stop just before Waitahanui.

"Police are in a difficult position when it comes to a fleeing offender or a driver who fails to stop but the important question that needs to be considered is why that individual feels the need to avoid speaking to Police. In this case, it transpired that the driver was already wanted for arrest.

"Offenders who flee from Police and put themselves, innocent road users and Police staff at risk. They will be subjected to the full pressure of our resources and will be held to account for their actions."