Windows of an Auckland supermarket were smashed with a metal pole early this morning – forcing staff to retreat to a "safe room".
Around 1.45am, police said they received multiple reports of a man with a large metal pole on Great South Rd in Papakura.
The man allegedly used the pole to smash a supermarket's storefront windows, causing "significant damage", Inspector Matt Hoyes said.
"Thankfully, staff inside the store were able retreat to a safe room and no one was injured."
Officers called the scene quickly spotted the suspect inside the premises.
As he exited the store, the man ignored instructions to drop the pole and fled on foot, Hoyes said.
"A short foot pursuit ensued, with staff apprehending the male nearby on Great South Rd."
Police said he was subsequently linked to damage at a premises on O'Shannessey St earlier in the night.
A 38-year-old male was due to appear in the Manukau District Court today charged with two counts of wilful damage, burglary, and resisting police.
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