Two store workers were assaulted when three males armed with pistols and a screwdriver robbed a Murupara store.
Detective Sergeant Tony Colby said police were investigating the aggravated robbery of the Murupara General Store on Pine Drive about 3.30pmon Wednesday by three offenders.
Two were armed with pistols and the third with a screwdriver.
The female store worker was punched in the face, and the male worker was also assaulted.
The store workers were both treated by ambulance staff for minor injuries and police were offering them support, Mr Colby said.
The offenders took cigarettes from behind the counter and attempted to take the cash register, before running from the shop.
The offenders were disguised, with one wearing a yellow scarf on his face.
Rotorua police would like to hear from anyone who saw these offenders or witnessed any suspicious activity before or after the robbery.
Murupara is a small community and there was a high chance that someone would know who these offenders were, Mr Colby said.
Anyone with information relevant to this investigation was asked to contact Rotorua police on (07) 348 0099.
Alternatively, information could be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.