Gym member's crime too close to home

Auckland police had an easy job tracking down a man who allegedly tried to hold up a community gym yesterday - he was recognised as a member.

Police said the robber entered the Roskill Aqua Sport Centre in Mt Roskill yesterday morning armed with an air gun that resembled a pistol.

The man had tried to disguise himself but was still recognised. When the receptionist refused to hand over any money the man fled to a waiting car - understood to be his own - and was driven home by his son.

Members of the armed offenders squad were called and surrounded a local house. Two men surrendered without incident.

"There were very strong leads. Not a lot of planning went into this, I don't think," said Acting Detective Sergeant Steven Shaw.

A 41-year-old man and a 19-year-old have been jointly charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and assault with intent to rob.

They will appear in the Auckland District Court today.