Bank customer chases robber

A bank customer chased a robber after he demanded money from a Hamilton teller today.

Police said the robber, believed to be unarmed, demanded money from a teller in the Hamilton East branch of the BNZ about 10.15am.

As the robber fled with his money, the teller called for help and a man in a queue behind the robber chased him.

He pursued the robber down Grey St but lost him when he turned down an alleyway to the rear of Sacred Heart school, said police.

Detective Dion Bennett said it was a gutsy call by the customer.

"He realised something was wrong and turns and gives chase, it was really pleasing."

Mr Bennett said the customer's first reaction was impressive.

"We take our hat off to him."

However, he said police were also wary about urging people to chase offenders because someone could get hurt.

Details of how much money the man took were not available.

The robber was a medium built Maori or Polynesian, between 180-185cm tall. He wore a dark top and dark track pants.

Mr Bennett said anyone with information on the robber could call him direct on (07) 834 9476.

- NZPA