Police have since recovered a grey Mazda Proceed vehicle, found on Mangakahia Road, which they believed is linked with the robbery, but are still looking for a black ute or similar.
They were keen to hear from anyone who saw either vehicle on Mangakahia, Otiria or Ngapipito roads between 6.50 and 7.30am.
"The Mazda has left through Ngapipito Road, on to Mangakahia Road towards Kaikohe. We also believe there may have been a black ute travelling in convoy with it," Detective Sergeant Johnson said.
Information should go to the Kaikohe police, phone (09) 405-2960, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555-111.