An Auckland man driving with a samurai sword in his car has rammed a Waikato Police car in a botched escape attempt.

Police received information from the *555 public traffic line regarding a green Honda Civic saloon driving in a dangerous manner southbound on State Highway One near Te Kauwhata. 

Checks determined that the vehicle had been stolen yesterday  in Onehunga. Police intercepted the vehicle just south of Huntly about 11.30am Thursday.

The car was pulled over in heavy traffic on SH1 and as one of the officers approached the driver reversed at speed and rammed the front of the patrol car,  damaging the bumper. 

The offender's vehicle stalled and after a brief struggle he was arrested. 

A samurai sword was then found behind the front passenger seat.

Police said both officers were fortunate not to be injuries.

A 25-year-old Auckland man will face Hamilton District Court on Friday on a range of charges, including using a vehicle as a weapon. 

Police have praised the public for the call that led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle and the arrest.

Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen the car before incident or who has had a samuarai sword stolen from them.

Anyone with information can contact Sergeant Juliette Burgess at the Hamilton Police station on 07-858-6200 or CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111. 

- © Fairfax NZ News