Hutt Valley Police investigating a spate of commercial robberies are seeking information from the public, specifically the clothing worn by the offenders.
On Saturday 10 January, Police were notified of an incident at a bar in King Street at around 1.30am.
Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Todd says two people unlawfully entered the premises with weapons and threatened employees.
"Thankfully the employees were uninjured, but this incident has understandably left them shaken.
"After making various demands, the offenders fled in a stolen vehicle later located abandoned on Sinclair Street."
One offender was wearing a black beanie, a dark coloured sweatshirt, long pants, and a blue cloth covering their face.
The second offender wore a beanie, a 'Nike Academy' sweatshirt with distinctive white stripes, dark coloured pants, distinctive coloured shoes, and wore a cloth over their face.
Police are seeking information in relation to this incident, including CCTV or dashcam footage in the King Street and Sinclair Street areas.
"We would also like to hear from anyone who may know someone that wears or has worn a Nike brand Men’s Dry Academy Soccer Track Jacket with black and white colouring, similar to the one pictured."
"One offender's shoes are quite distinctive. They appear to be a silver/metallic/chrome coloured sports shoe with a reflective logo or marking on the back of the heel. The brand is unknown. If you know someone who has worn these shoes previously, please contact us," says Detective Senior Sergeant Todd.
Since 10 December 2025, three Hutt Valley bars have been targeted in similar ways where offenders have used various weapons, including a firearm, to demand money and other items.
Detective Senior Sergeant Todd says Police believe these robberies may be linked.
"There are some similarities in aspects of these incidents, which indicate they are likely linked.
"We are always concerned with any offending where firearms are involved and the investigation team is determined to hold these offenders to account."
Police have contacted a number of bar owners in the Hutt Valley and wider Wellington District to offer support and talk to them around staff safety procedures.
If you have any information regarding these incidents, or recognise the clothing in these images, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105.
Please use the reference number 260110/6662.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers online or by phone via 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
