A shot was fired and two people assaulted as three masked men armed with a gun, machete and screwdriver held up a Christchurch bar.
Police hunting the robbers are appealing to anyone who may have information about what happened at Coaster's Tavern on Daniels Road, Redwood on Tuesday night to come forward.
Detective Sergeant Brad Greenstreet says three men wearing black hoodies and scarves over their faces entered the tavern shortly before 9.30pm.
They threatened bar staff and patrons as they demanded money, and one shot was fired into the ceiling by one of the offenders during the incident.
A 19-year-old woman and a 67-year-old man were assaulted during the incident and received minor injuries, but these were not as a result of the firearm discharge, Mr Greenstreet said in a statement this evening.
The trio of offenders left the bar in a stolen dark blue Mazda Familia hatchback, before dumping it nearby in a residential area.
"This was a violent and dangerous incident, and it is fortunate that more people were not seriously hurt," Mr Greenstreet said.
"Police would like to reassure the public that we are committed to catching these offenders and holding them to account," he said.
Anyone who might have information about the incident, or who's able to identify the people in the photos is being asked to call Christchurch Police on (03) 363 7400. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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