22 Feb 2013

Police seek pair following tourist spot robberies

2:11 pm on 22 February 2013

Police are looking for two men in connection with a series of daylight robberies at tourist spots in Auckland and say they may be armed and dangerous.

On Saturday, a gunman fired five shots into the ground when tourists at the summit of Mt Eden challenged him while he was stealing a bag.

Police allege he also committed robberies at the base of Mt Eden and in the Auckland Domain.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard said police have warrants to arrest John Koteka, 34, who also uses the name Paul Wilson, and 31-year-old Alex Tereora.

Detective Inspector Beard said Mr Koteka is of Pacific Island descent and is solidly-built and while Mr Tereora is Maori.

He said the robberies were brazen and frightening and police are keen to find the men.

Detective Inspector Beard said either man may be armed and members of the public should not approach them.