Police seek public help after attempted knife robbery

It is believed a person has pulled a knife at a Mount Maunganui store this afternoon. Photo/George Novak

UPDATE 5.40pm: Police are investigating an attempted robbery where it is believed a man pulled a knife in a souvenir store in Mount Maunganui this afternoon.

A man allegedly presented a knife at a female store keeper and demanded money from her before leaving the shop empty-handed, said a police statement.

The man was seen running towards a vehicle which was parked nearby on Prince Ave from where he drove off a short time later.

Detective Sergeant Alan Kingsbury said it appeared the man had been in the souvenir store for approximately 30 minutes prior to the attempted robbery and that it was possible he had been in other shops in the area.

Mr Kinsbury said the fact that the man had presented the knife was extremely concerning and that it was fortunate that nobody was hurt.

The man is described as being European, aged in his early to mid 20's, slight build and approximately 5'8" tall with facial hair on his chin and gaps between his teeth.

He had mid-length black hair and was wearing a grey check jacket with a light blue hooded top underneath it.

The vehicle is described as an older model 4-door sedan with faded red paint.

Mr Kingsbury appealed for anybody with information to come forward.

He stressed that somebody in the community would know who was involved and would hold the key to solving the incident.

Police encourage anyone with relevant information to the incident to contact Mount Maunganui Police on 07 5753143.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

EARLIER: It is believed a person has pulled a knife at a Mount Maunganui store this afternoon.

Northern police communications acting shift commander Chris Money confirmed police were called to a Mount Maunganui Rd store about 2.30pm where it was believed somebody had a knife.

Mr Money said police are still at the scene.

A police officer at the scene, who declined to be named, said police had concerns about a man with a knife on Maunganui Rd outside the souvenir shop about an hour ago.

A reporter at the scene said police were still outside the shop and in the area.