Robbers "yelling and screaming" before fleeing with cash from Armourguard van

Cordons on Auckland's Dominion Rd have been stood down following an armed robbery this evening.

A sum of cash was taken from a cash security van outside the ASB bank before two offenders fled on foot about 4.45pm, police said.

The robbers are still on the run and a full investigation is underway to apprehend those responsible.

"Police are continuing to interview a large number of witnesses who were at the scene. At this stage, a description of the offenders is not available.

"It is understood both offenders were carrying firearms at the time of the incident. No shots were fired and no one was injured.

"A number of people were shaken however and are receiving ongoing support."

Stuart Hintz, who parked outside the bank about 4.30pm to go to the Post Office, said "police with machine guns are everywhere".

"I stopped at the Post Office and all hell broke loose," he said.

Armed police at the scene. Photo / Supplied

Hintz said he did not see the incident take place, but heard some screaming and police swooping on the area.

He said Dominion Rd had been blocked to traffic since 4.30pm.

Lawyer Bharat Parshotam works upstairs from the ASB and ANZ banks on Dominion Rd.

He said around bank closing time a number of clients ran into his shop.

"A few clients came in saying there were two guys with black hoodies yelling and screaming. They were clutching a bag and ran through the alleyway...between ASB and cash converters...to the back carpark."

The ArmourGuard van is still outside; the guards do not appear to be hurt, he said.
Police have cordoned off the alleyway.

"A few people took protection in my office because they saw two guys yelling and running through and got scared for their own safety so took shelter here."

An ASB bank spokeswoman said no ASB staff or customers were involved in the incident outside the branch.

Police do not believe the incident was a random robbery.

Police would like to thank the public for the information provided so far.

Any witnesses or anyone with information on the incident who is yet to speak to Police is asked to contact Auckland Central Police Station immediately on 09 302 6400.

Alternatively information may be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.