Armed robbery spree leads to police chase in Hamilton, one arrested

The alleged offender will appear in court on Thursday.
The alleged offender will appear in court on Thursday. Photo credit: Getty

A spree of armed robberies in Hamilton has ended in a foot chase and an arrest. 

Police said a man initially presented a weapon at a Westpac in Chartwell at 1:30pm on Wednesday.

At 5:15pm, another man fitting the same description was reported robbing the Rototuna Kiwibank. 

Det Sgt Scott McKenzie said following a third robbery in Taupiri at 7:30pm, police chased down a vehicle of interest. 

"The vehicle failed to stop when signalled by police and a pursuit was initiated in response to the fleeing driver," he said. "The man stopped the vehicle just before 8pm in Ramarama before decamping on foot.

"He was located nearby and taken into custody without further incident."

Police said an imitation firearm has since been recovered.

"A 27-year-old man is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court tomorrow [Thursday]," McKenzie said.

"Anyone who witnessed any of these incidents is asked to contact police via 105 and quote file number 200930/3896."