A city dairy was held up at gun point just before 8am this morning however the quick use of a panic button saw the offender leave with nothing.
A male entered the dairy at the corner of Fitzgerald Ave and Worcester Street jut before 8am, brandished a pistol and demanded money. The owner pressed the panic alarm and the male left.
He was last seen on Gloucester Street near Christchurch East School.
He is described as clean shaven, between 165- 177 cm, (5'5" -5'10"), olive complexion, athletic build with short, dark hair.
Anyone who sighted this male or has any information is asked to contact Detective Constable Ian Smith at Christchurch Central on 363 7400.
The firearm has since been recovered.
Police have recovered the firearm.