A heavy police presence is in Bellevue this afternoon as officers search for the occupants of a crashed vehicle.

A police spokesperson says a vehicle – which is believed to have been stolen – crashed on Margaret Road.

'It appears a car crashed into a traffic island/curb and the occupants then fled the scene on foot.

'Information received from one call suggests the car may have been stolen.

'We are currently in the area looking for the people involved.”

People with information about the theft or the crash can report it to Tauranga Police Station on 07 577 4300.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.