Security guards at a Lower Hutt mall were robbed at gunpoint this afternoon, police say.
The two security guards were returning to a money van at Queensgate Mall in Lower Hutt around 4.15pm when three men wearing balaclavas allegedly robbed, assaulted and threatened them with weapons.
The assailants drove away in a stolen red Honda Odyssey, registration CAK757, police say.
It was found abandoned nearby about 15 minutes later.
"Police would like to hear from anyone who saw this incident or anyone acting suspiciously in the area", said Senior Sergeant Steve Braybook.
"We would also like to hear from anyone who saw these men arrive at or flee the scene in the red Honda Odyssey".
Anyone with any information was encouraged to contact Hutt Valley Police on (04) 560 2600. People wanting to provide information anonymously can call the Crimestoppers organisation on 0800 555 111.