Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
A teenager has been arrested after threatening a shopkeeper with a knife and stealing a cash register.
Police were called to the scene in Auckland's Panmure after a staff member at the superette on Queens Road left the store and closed the teen inside.
The alleged offender was able to force his way out of the shop before fleeing the scene around 2.50pm on Tuesday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Armstrong, of Auckland City's Crime Squad, said the 18-year-old had entered the store, presented a knife and made demands.
"He jumped over the counter and took the cash register, while the staff member exited the store and closed the offender inside.
"Police were contacted, meanwhile the offender began to force his way out of the shop."
Officers soon found the alleged offender, who had taken off on foot, and arrested him.
"We have since recovered a knife, cash register and money taken from the store," Armstrong said.
"Fortunately the victim was not hurt as a result of this ordeal, but is understandably shaken and has been provided support by police."
The teen was expected to appear in Auckland District Court on Wednesday, changed with aggravated robbery.
Armstrong said: "Police hope the quick apprehension and recovery of the stolen property will bring some reassurance to the victim and wider community."
