An offender is on the run after using a firearm during an attempted armed robbery, believed to have taken place at an ANZ bank branch in Otaki this morning.
The man fired a shot into a security door used by the tellers during the attempted robbery at about 9.30am, according to police.
"Thankfully no one was injured but they are shaken and we would like to locate this person as quickly as possible," Detective Senior Sergeant Marc Hercock said.
After firing the shot, the man left the bank through the front door and the bank carpark at the rear of the building, before continuing towards the south.
He was wearing a blue mask with white teeth on it, a black jacket with a white or grey stripe above and below the elbow and black pants.
Police said he was also using orange gloves, of the type used for dishwashing or gardening.
It was unclear if the person left the business with anything.
Police were continuing to search the area for the offender.
