Armed man steals cash from Christchurch TAB

File photo / NZ Herald

A man armed with a firearm stole cash from a Christchurch TAB today.

The man, disguised with a balaclava, entered the Merivale store on St Albans St shortly before 11.30am, police said.

An accomplice waited outside for him in a late-1980s red Ford Falcon flatbed ute.

The man raised the firearm and demanded money from a staff member behind the counter, police said.

"He was given the small amount of money from the till and left."

It was unknown in what direction the two men drove away, police said.

Christchurch police were appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or had seen the distinctive ute to contact them on (03) 363 7400, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.