A fleeing driver driving a Toyota car crashed into a Hyundai car driven by a member of the public at the intersection of Glandovey and Idris Rds on Tuesday morning.
The Hyundai driver died. He was in his mid-60s.
Canterbury Metro Area Commander Superintendent Lane Todd said those in the Toyota car were young people.
Police signalled for the driver of a Toyota car to pull over on Papanui Rd about 4am due to "erratic driving", but the driver did not stop.
There were four others in the Toyota car, he said.
Police pursued the car for about four minutes through residential streets before the car collided with Hyundai at the intersection.
"The driver and sole occupant of the Hyundai sustained critical injuries and was transported to hospital where they sadly died," said Superintendent Todd.
One person in the Toyota car has critical injuries while the other four have serious to moderate injuries.
A Serious Crash Unit is investigating and the Independent Police Conduct Authority will be undertaking a "full investigation", said Superintendent Todd.
He said staff involved were being supported and the officer driving the police car had a "gold star certification".
Since March, additional training has been given to officers following a review of fleeing driver incidents, he said.
One person was trapped and rescued from the vehicle by firefighters.
Christchurch Transport Operations Centre said Glandovey Rd was closed eastbound at Garreg Rd and westbound at Heaton Rd, Rossall St and the Strowan Rd intersection.
All roads were reopened at about 10.40am.
