Police believe up to six youths may have been involved in the aggravated robbery of a Palmerston North dairy.
The offenders stormed into the Rangiora Dairy last night at approximately 6.10pm armed with imitation firearms and a baseball bat.
The shop assistant was assaulted and the offenders have left withan undisclosed amount of cigarettes and money.
The victim is now being supported by police and will be interviewed today.
Police are also communicating with a member of the public who was in the store at the time of the robbery. They will also be conducting extra patrols in the area today.
Senior Sergeant Craig Sheridan, Manawatu Area Investigations manager said police took incidents of this nature very seriously.
"We are committed to holding the offenders responsible. If anyone has information on the robbery, or may have been in the area at the time, they are asked to call Palmerston North CIB on 06 351 3880.
"Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
