A Napier teenager risked his friends' lives when he chose to flee from police, allegedly reaching speeds of up to 185km/h, police say.

Following the incident this morning, the 18-year-old man has had his vehicle impounded, his licence suspended and will appear in court next week facing driving charges.

The incident took place shortly after midnight when police attempted to stop the driver after noticing he was speeding on Swamp Rd.

The driver sped off and led police on an eight-minute pursuit through Hawke's Bay, risking the lives of his female and male passengers, both aged 17, inspector Paul Jermy said.

He eventually pulled over at the Napier Golf Course, where police arrested him.

The teenager has been charged with reckless driving, driving at a dangerous speed, failing to stop for Police, and resisting arrest.

- © Fairfax NZ News