Rotorua Police hunting hammer-wielding dairy robber

Police in Rotorua are searching for a man who attacked a dairy worker in Owhata. Image / Google

Police in Rotorua are hunting a hammer-swinging robber who attacked a dairy worker before making off with cigarettes.

Authorities were called to the Rosedale Superette, in Owhata, about 5pm Friday.

The store owner was attacked by the armed man, who struck the victim several times about the head and body.

"The offender took an armful of cigarettes before jumping the counter and running out of the front of the store,'' police said.

The store owner managed to get up and give chase.

"The offender has run across Te Ngae Rd, in front of heavy traffic in a northeasterly direction, towards Tennyson Drive.''

Police said witnesses described the robber as Maori and of a thin and lanky build.

He was wearing black jeans, a black hooded jumper, a black puffer jacket and a black cap.

Another witness thought the robber had a slight limp.

The owner was taken to hospital for treatment.

Anyone with information about the attack or the offender involved is being urged to contact authorities immediately.

Can you help? Call Rotorua CIB (07) 348 0099 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.