He said the fleeing driver then collided with a police car, which then hit a house, causing significant damage.
No-one was seriously injured in the incident and the male driver was arrested at the scene, Bowman said.
Police would like to hear form any witnesses to the crash or anyone who saw the fleeing driver travelling in a red Mitsubishi ute between Grasmere and Windsor between 10am and 10.45am.
Police inquiries are continuing into the family harm incident and the crash.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Invercargill Police on 03 211 0400.