Teen ‘took to police with knife’

Police are still on the hunt for people, some said to be youths, who allegedly fired a gun while robbing a liquor store of booze, cigarettes and cash.

An 18-year-old was granted interim name suppression when he appeared in the Palmerston North District Court on Wednesday in relation to the robbery of Liquorland College St in Palmerston North on Tuesday.

Police say a group as large as six people stormed into the liquor store about 3.50pm.

Police understand a shot was fired, but no-one was injured.

The 18-year-old was remanded in custody until Thursday so a judge could consider a possible bail application.

He is charged with robbing a Liquorland employee of alcohol, cash and cigarettes while he was armed with a pistol, and assaulting someone with intent to avoid arrest.

Duty lawyer Tim Hesketh said part of the allegation involved the teen ‘‘[taking] to a police officer with a knife’’.

He asked for name suppression for the teen on the basis of the alleged robber’s age, the fact most of his family would not know he has been charged, and the ages of some of the co-accused.

While court documents made available to the Manawatu Standard say the teen allegedly committed the robbery ‘‘with persons unknown’’, Hesketh said he imagined some of the co-accused would be appearing in Youth Court.

Outside of court, Liquorland chief executive Brendon Lawry said the incident was ‘‘very distressing’’ for the staff member.

‘‘We are incredibly thankful she was unhurt and is coping well following the incident.

‘‘We are currently working with her to give all the support she needs,’’ Lawry said.

The owner of the store had shared CCTV footage with police, but Lawry said he could make no other comment as the matter was before the courts.