Police say a daylight public brawl in a well-frequented shopping area in Kopeopeo, Whakatāne yesterday afternoon was "unacceptable".
Officers were called to the intersection of James and King Street with reports that a fight had broken out involving several people around 12.30pm.
Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Anthony Hay said officers responded immediately, however the majority of the group had already fled in vehicles.
He said there were no reported serious injuries, but that this was "an alarming incident for the public to witness".
"This incident occurred in the middle of the day, in a well-frequented shopping area, and lasted four to five minutes.
"This sort of public place violence is unacceptable, and police will not tolerate it and nor should the community," he said.
Hay said there were "a large number of people who witnessed this fight" and thanked those who immediately called 111 to report the incident.
"Police are investigating and making inquiries into what exactly has occurred today and who was involved, and would like to hear from anyone who saw the fight," Hay said.
Anyone with any information or video footage that could assist was urged to get in touch through 105, online or over the phone, or come in to the Whakatāne Police station.
Information could also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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