Christchurch dairy owner seriously assaulted during early morning robbery

A Christchurch dairy owner has been seriously assaulted during an early morning robbery.

Police were alerted to a report of a robbery and assault at Opawa Discounter at around 6.40am today.

“Police responded immediately; however, the alleged offenders had already fled the scene in a vehicle. One person received serious injuries,” a police spokesperson said.

“Inquiries are ongoing to locate the alleged offenders.”

The dairy is closed this morning and members of the community have dropped off flowers outside.

A Christchurch dairy owner has been seriously assaulted during a robbery this morning. Photo / Jazlyn Whales

The business has been owned by the same family for 16 years, but this is not the first time something like this has happened, said the owner’s daughter.

She described the incident as “frustrating”.

The dairy will remain closed for at least the remainder of today as the cleanup continues, she said.

Hato Hone St John said they were notified of the incident at 6.42am and responded by sending an ambulance and rapid response vehicle.

“One person was assessed at the scene and transported to Christchurch Hospital in a moderate condition,” a St John spokesperson said.