Shocking footage from New Zealand has captured the moment an SUV driver deliberately mounted the curb in an attempt to hit a pedestrian on the side of the road.

The incident took place on Hall Avenue in the Māngere, Auckland, with video of the encounter shared to social media on Sunday.

The driver of the car was seen driving erratically, first swerving onto a curb before mounting it. 

He then attempted to hit a man in a white shirt, who clutched his backpack and quickly darted out of the way to avoid being mowed down.

The man eventually escaped by ducking behind a light pole before he sprinted away from the scene.

It remains unclear what provoked the dangerous encounter. 

New Zealand Police have been contacted for comment.

Footage from Hall Avenue in Māngere shows a life-threatening close call between an SUV and a pedestrian