Armed robbers held up two Christchurch pubs at gunpoint last night.
In just over an hour, the gun-toting thieves targeted Coasters Tavern in Redwood before The Brewery in Woolston.
Police believe two men carrying firearms entered Coasters at about 9.45pm and made off with a sum of cash.
At about 11pm, The Brewery then suffered the same fate, detective senior sergeant Darryl Sweeney says.
While police inquiries are in their early stages, Mr Sweeney says it is likely there are links to robberies at licensed premises in Riccarton and Merivale before Christmas.
Detailed scene examinations are being carried out at the pubs this morning, with victims being provided support.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Christchurch police on 03 363 7400 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
