Arrest for home invasion, pub robbery

An armed police officer stands guard on Kerikeri Rd after last week's robbery at the Homestead Tavern.

A man has been arrested and charged in relation to an armed robbery at the Homestead Tavern and a home invasion in Kamo.

The 36-year-old from Kerikeri will appear in the Kaikohe District Court today on a total of 16 charges, including aggravated robbery and kidnapping.

The first aggravated robbery occurred at the Homestead Tavern on the evening of June 9.

The other aggravated robbery was a home invasion on Three Mile Bush Rd, Kamo, on Tuesday afternoon.

The suspect was arrested after a short vehicle pursuit yesterday afternoon in Shepherd Rd, Kerikeri.

The victims of both robberies were slowly recovering from their ordeal and still receiving support, Detective Inspector Kevin Burke said.

"This matter was able to be resolved quickly due to good information received from the community, who were appalled by this man's actions. Good, urgent police work has prevented further harm," he said.

The vehicle stolen from Three Mile Bush Rd had been recovered in Haruru Falls.

Police were still looking for the firearm used at the Homestead Tavern.

Enquiries were continuing to identify the co-offender for the tavern robbery.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact the Whangarei Police on 09 430 4500 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.