Man stabbed in head during Taupo robbery

A man has been stabbed in the head during an aggravated robbery in Taupo.

Police say three men dressed in hoodies entered 'The Inn' just after 10 last night armed with a pistol and knives.

They demanded money from three men in the bar and also the cash register.

Detective Sergeant Dave Beattie says one of the victims attempted to flee, only to be stabbed above his right eye.

He says the hooded men appear to have then panicked and ran from the bar.

The victim was taken to Taupo Hospital but discharged soon after.

"This incident had the potential for loss of life. The victim is extremely lucky not to have lost an eye," Mr Beattie said.

"It appears to be a badly planned robbery by a bunch of reckless local youths."

Mr Beattie said it was known the three offenders spent considerable time out in front of the premises, about half an hour before the robbery.

"It is highly likely that other locals may have spoken to these men before the robbery."

Police want to speak to anyone who knows the identity of "hooded sweatshirt clad young males" who were in the Taupo central business district area around the time of the robbery, Mr Beattie said.

- NEWSTALK ZB, NZPA