Speedy arrest in bank heist likely

Police are seeking this machete-wielding man. Photo / Supplied

An unmasked man with a machete robbed the Onehunga National Bank in Auckland on Friday afternoon.

Police say the man brandished the machete and threatened staff before running off.

Westpac banking security expert Grant Henderson said desperate robbers are not covering their faces, defying common sense.

"He's reckless and no doubt will be quickly identified and apprehended by the police," said Henderson.

The large bearded Maori is about 40 and he wore a black beanie, grey sweatshirt and black trousers.

Henderson said though desperation seemed the likely cause for the brazen robberies, the increase began before the recession, suggesting other societal forces. "These people usually have personal issues which are making them desperate," he said.

* Anyone who can identify the robber can call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.