Police are searching through Gate Pa in Tauranga after a report of an aggravated robbery this morning.
It is understood a male walked into Malwa Food and Spices near 22nd Ave about 10.35am and attempted to assault the female store assistant. It is also understood he attempted to take the till but fled.
The owner of the store told the Bay of Plenty Times at the scene that his wife and baby were inside at the time of the attempted aggravated robbery.
The owner, who would not be named, said the incident had been a shock. He is now speaking with police.