Police hunt third armed robber

Armed Police arrive at Royal Oak primary where the students were in lockdown after an armed bank robber was seen running through the area. Photo / NZPA / Wayne Drought

Police have found two suspected robbers, but at least one other is on the loose after armed gunmen robbed a bank in the Auckland suburb of Royal Oak today.

Armed police swarmed on the area and ordered people to stay in their homes as they hunted for the gunmen.

A person outside Royal Oak Primary School said it was believed the gunmen tried to carjack a woman as they fled the bank.

Police carrying rifles and Glock pistols patrolled the grounds of the school and while parents were allowed in, they were not allowed out.

Inspector Ben Offner, of northern police communications, said the robbers got away with cash from the bank.

"Police responded and with the public's assistance have located two persons who are now assisting the police with their enquires.

"Police believe another offender is still at large," Mr Offner said.

A witness said armed police walked through the school gates among the school children.

"They are armed - two police with pistols and one with a rifle."

The police helicopter also hovered overhead.

Armed police also hunted for the gunman in streets around the school.

- NZPA