Bay of Plenty Police are reopening a 36-year-old cold case in an attempt to solve the 1976 murder of security guard Howard Percy.

Howard was working at the former ANZ bank on Old Taupo Road in Rotorua when it was robbed by an offender on November 5, 1976.

The ANZ bank facility in 1976. Photo: Supplied.

He attempted to stop the offender by tackling him resulting in him being shot twice. He died on route to hospital.

Bay of Plenty Police communications spokesperson Kim Perks says the ANZ building was first targeted four months previous to the shooting.

On July 16, 1976 an offender entered the bank and tied up two tellers and security guard Howard, who was on duty at the time, before stealing about $13,000 cash.

Kim says there was an extensive investigation but no one was ever charged.

A small team of investigators are now looking into the case and are asking for any information from the public about the homicide.

Anyone with information relevant to the case is asked to contact the Rotorua Police.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.