A restaurant in New Plymouth is closed today following a "frightening" robbery last night.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Allemann said officers were called to Tukapa Street around 6.20pm after a person allegedly entered the restaurant and took cash before fleeing in a vehicle with a second person, who did not enter the premises.
"Initial area enquiries were made, however the vehicle was not located. Police are continuing work to locate those involved, and the vehicle," he said.
He said while nobody was injured, the incident was incredibly distressing for those who witnessed it.
In a post on social media, a spokesperson for bistro and cocktail bar Ate Forty One said diners and staff were present at the time of the incident, which it said was "an incredibly difficult and upsetting evening".
They said it left "hardworking staff and customers shaken by an experience no one should ever have to go through".
"Thankfully, no one was physically injured, and for that we are extremely grateful. However, the emotional impact of such a frightening incident cannot be overlooked.
"Our staff come to work every day to serve our wonderful community, and it is heartbreaking to see them put through something like this.
They went on to thank police for their response, and said the gaming room would remain closed while checks were completed.
Allemann said police were appealing for sightings of the vehicle involved, described to be a late 2000s model black Mazda 3/Axela.
"The vehicle left along Tukapa Street, headed towards David Street, Westown," he added.
Anyone with information that could assist was urged to contact police on 105 over the phone or online, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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