Rotorua police are investigating an aggravated robbery at the Westend Tavern today.

About 12.30pm today a male armed with a baseball bat entered the tavern at the Westend Shopping Centre on Old Taupo Rd.

A staff member who was working in the bar area was confronted by the male, who demanded cash.

The staff member did not give up the cash easily and attempted to fend him off.

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The offender managed to take money from the till before running from the tavern, across Old Taupo Rd and into York St.

He was chased by a member of the public who tried to stop him as he got into a white vehicle parked in York St.

The offender is described as a male Maori or Pacific Islander, about 6 foot tall, of large build. He was wearing a light grey hoodie, creamy coloured trousers, and had his face concealed with a scarf.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have seen this offender either before or after the robbery. Police are hopeful that someone will have seen him or the vehicle he got into.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua police on (07) 348 0099. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.