Police were awaiting blood tests results for the male driver but said charges were likely.
As a result of the crash rally officials cancelled the stage and sent drivers back through Oromahoe Rd towards Puketona and onto Paihia for refuelling, ready for the next stage.
Rally spokesman Lance Hastie said the safety car reported the collision immediately to race officials who then contacted police.
"It was a closed road and under the control of the event. Those on the scene dealt with it at the time. It didn't involve any competitors so there won't be any follow up or investigation from our end," Mr Hastie said.
He said officials were not required to inform Motorsport New Zealand or the International Automobile Federation (FIA) of the incident as it did not involve any competitors.
"We made the decision to cancel the stage, based on the very short time available to clear out the scene. We are happy with how it was dealt with."
