KEY POINTS:
Hamilton police are investigating the fourth armed robbery of a retailer in the city since last Friday, and are linking all of them to a fifth one near Te Awamutu two weeks ago.
Spokesman Andrew McAlley said two "dark-skinned men" brandishing pistols entered a liquor store on the corner of Clarkin Rd and Heaphy Tce about 7.20pm on Wednesday.
The owner of the store was assaulted and tied up before cigarettes, alcohol, and cash were taken.
The armed men both wore stockings over their heads.
Three similar attacks in the city occurred on Friday, Saturday and Monday nights, and Mr McAlley said all were being linked to one in Kihikihi, near Te Awamutu, on August 5.
The suburbs targeted in the past week have been scattered around the city, from Melville and Hillcrest to Fairfield and northern River Rd.
In some instances large bags have been used by the offenders to help carry their loot away.
Dairy owners and small liquor outlets are being advised to increase their security and procedures around closing time.
