Two stolen vehicles were used in a ram raid style aggravated robbery at Mobil Karapiro.

At 12.40am, police says a stolen white Mazda Atenza was driven through the front window to gain access to the shop.

Five people entered the shop, armed with two bats, and took tobacco and cigarettes before leaving the scene in a second stolen yellow Mazda Atenza, registration number CPJ6, says Detective Craig Lemin.

'The second car was located not long after in Tirau. Police are conducting scene examinations at both sites.

'There was one staff member at the service station at the time of the incident and they are shaken but unharmed.”

Police are appealing for anyone who saw either of these cars in the area, travelling separately or together, in the early hours of the morning to come forward.

Information can be reported to your local police station or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.