Police have apologised after accidentally pepper spraying a young girl last night in Whakatane.

The girl was a passenger in the car of a man at the centre of an alleged violent assault on an officer during a routine traffic stop, police say.

Photo:File.

It's alleged the man, who is known to police, refused to give his details when the car was stopped about 5.40pm yesterday. The police officer reached for the keys when he attempted to drive off.

It's understood the officer's arm became trapped in the window of the car and was cut during the incident. Police allege the man then assaulted the officer before being pepper sprayed.

Police say the girl in the car was accidentally sprayed during the altercation. She received immediate care and sustained no lasting injury.

"We're sorry for the obvious distress and pain this would have caused the girl during the incident and are pleased that she is okay," says Bay of Plenty district commander Superintendent Andy McGregor.

"However, had it not been for the violent actions of the man involved, officers would not have had to use pepper spray to protect themselves in the first place.

"It is also sad that she is an innocent victim who has had to witness this violent incident, which could have been completely avoided had the man simply complied with the officers, who were just trying to do their job while keeping the community safe."

The officer received minor injuries and is back on duty. The man has been charged with aggravated assault, failing to stop and giving false details.

The girl's mother posted images of her 10-year-old daughter being treated in hospital, on her Facebook page.