Police are hunting a man who robbed a Greymouth petrol station with a samurai sword in the early hours of this morning.
West Coast Police are investigating the aggravated robbery of Greymouth BP after the offender entered the petrol station about 3.15am wielding the sword.
They took an unknown amount of cash from the register then fled, heading along Tainui Road on foot, police said.
The offender was wearing a sweatshirt or jacket with light-coloured sleeves and a hood, and a black body. Both sleeves have writing down the length of the arms.
The person was also wearing dark coloured trousers and white shoes.
The sword was silver with a black sheath and was approximately 50cm long.
Fortunately nobody was injured in the robbery but the station attendant was understandably very shaken, police said.
Police conducted a forensic scene examination at the BP this morning and are following up several lines of enquiry.
They would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area of the BP around the time of the robbery, or anyone who has information which might help identify the offender.
Please call Greymouth Police on 03 768 1600.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.