Images catch robbers in the act

Security images of the robbers at Waipawa Four Square.

Hawke's Bay Police investigating two aggravated robberies that occurred in Waipawa and Hastings on Monday night and Tuesday morning have released photos of one of the incidents.

At about 8pm on Queen's Birthday Monday, two men entered the Waipawa Four Square via the rear of the premises, and threatened the two store employees.

One of the employees was also dragged around the store. The men stole cash and cigarettes before leaving the area.

Police are keen to hear from anyone who was in Waipawa before or after this crime and may have seen the offenders preparing to enter the Four Square or making their escape, either on foot or in a vehicle.

In what is believed to be an unrelated offence, two men entered Zabeels Sports Bar on King Street North, central Hastings, at about 9.30am on Tuesday.

One of the men was in possession of a knife which was used to threaten the bar staff. Cash was targeted during the robbery, and again an employee was physically pushed around.

With the stolen money the offenders ran from the bar, heading north on King St.

Detective Sergeant Craig Vining said the offenders caused "significant emotional harm to all the victims, with them not knowing how far these offenders would go".

- Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.