Hamilton Police are seeking the public's help in identifying a man who tried to rob a City late yesterday afternoon.
And they are warning people to play it safe if confronted by a robber, not take steps that may aggravate the situation.
Detective Mark Watt of the Hamilton CIB said a man walked into the Mitcham Ave dairy about 5pm but left when he realised the number of people in the store.
"He's returned about 5.30pm, walked up to the counter and presented a pistol at the shop attendant demanding money.
"The attendant has immediately ducked down behind the counter and the shop owner, who happened to be standing by a fridge at the end of the counter, has thrown a bottle of water at the offender which was sufficient to scare the man off."
It was this action that has Police concerned with Mr Watt warning that the best action to take when confronted with an armed attacker is to comply with their demands.
"Obviously Police sympathise with the frustrations of small business owners but in this situation what would have happened if the bottle had hit the robber's hand and the gun then gone off with what could have been tragic circumstances?
"We advise people that the safest course of action is to avoid heroics, do as the robber demands and phone 111 as soon as possible, money can be replaced but lives can't."
The offender has then fled down the hill on foot where Police believe he may have then run through adjacent netball courts to make his escape.
"The offender is described as a male Maori or Pacific Islander wearing and dark blue and light coloured beanie, dark sunglasses, a dark hooded sweatshirt and dark jeans.
"The distinctive design on his hoodie was repeated on the back though the design was larger and we're hoping someone may recognise it in the photograph and get hold of us," said Mr Watt.
Anyone with information on the identity of the robber is asked to contact Mr Watt at the Hamilton Central Police Station on 07 8586200.
Anyone seeking small business safety advice is urged to contact their nearest Police Station for a copy of the New Zealand Police's "Business Crime Prevention' booklet.
End