UPDATED 9.39am: Three Auckland police officers are being credited with saving the life of a fleeing driver, trapped in a crashed and smoke-logged car.

Inspector Peter Raines said the officers spotted a stolen car in Henderson's Central Park Drive early this morning.

The driver refused to pull over and sped off.

Less than 60 seconds after they gave chase, the driver lost control on a corner and crashed side-on into a tree.

The impact jammed the driver's foot on the accelerator so the car continued to rev, and the vehicle threatened to catch fire.

As smoke filled the car, three police officers risked their lives and pulled the injured driver to safety.

Ambulance staff treated the police officers for smoke inhalation.

The critically injured driver is in a serious but stable condition in hospital.