Knives, machetes and balaclavas have been recovered by police after four youths allegedly fled from police in Hamilton this afternoon.

Detective Inspector Graham Pitkethley said the alleged incident unfolded at about midday when an officer spotted a vehicle driving on Cobbham Dr with a smashed quarterlight window.

Its four occupants were allegedly wearing masks and gloves.

Police soon established the Toyota Corolla had been reported stolen and a plan was put in place to stop the car once it was found again.

The vehicle was seen at about 1.20pm turning into Pukete Rd but Pitkethley said the driver allegedly fled after being signalled to stop.

However, another unit spiked the car about 30 seconds later.

Pitkethley said the car then turned onto Totara Drive and continued on Sandwich Rd and towards the Te Rapa straight.

However, it came to a stop on Te Rapa Rd, between Northway St and Bryant Rd, where its alleged occupants fled on foot.

"The driver allegedly tried to carjack a member of the public's vehicle while holding a machete," Pitkethley said.

"Thankfully, the member of the public was able to drive away before the alleged offender could enter the car."

Three suspects were arrested nearby and a fourth was located by a police dog unit about five minutes later.

Police have recovered knives, machetes, and balaclavas.

Pitkethley said inquiries were ongoing, including whether any of the four have links to a number car thefts and aggravated robberies in the city over recent days.

A 15-year-old youth has been charged with escaping custody, aggravated failing to stop, dangerous driving, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Two other 15-year-olds and a 16-year-old face charges of unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

Three will appear in Hamilton Youth Court on Monday, with a fourth appearing on Wednesday.

"As the case is before the court, Police are unable to comment further."