Barefaced robbery... by mistake

Two men have had a night in the cells to reflect on the importance of planning, after one of them forgot his mask and gun while allegedly attempting an armed hold-up.

Police say the pair, aged 20 and 22, entered the Kiwibank/Post Shop on Princess St in Takanini about 10.40am on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old stood at the back of the shop, and the other man strode to the counter intending to demand cash.

It was not until he reached the counter that he realised his bandanna was still hanging around his neck and his gun was with his accomplice, investigators say.

So he went back, was given the firearm, and returned to the counter to demand the money.

Both men then fled with an undisclosed sum.

But the younger man's bandanna was still under his chin, so tellers got a good look at his face.

Papakura police - who described the failed robbery as "a little unusual" - arrested the two men yesterday.

They are scheduled to appear in the Papakura District Court today charged with aggravated robbery.

A NZ Post spokesman refused to discuss the matter, but one worker said the staff had had "a bit of a chuckle" over the incident.

Auckland has had a spate of robberies - particularly of banks - in recent weeks.

In the latest incident, North Shore police arrested a 16-year-old youth yesterday after the aggravated robbery of the Kiwibank on Mokoia Rd in Birkenhead.

Detectives said the youth walked into the bank just after 2pm, presented a note demanding cash and left with money.

He was apprehended a short time later and taken in to custody.