Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Police are investigating a burglary at a Hamilton East rifle club in which thieves stole 14 guns and a "large amount of ammunition" from a secured safe.
Detective Senior Sergeant Terri Wilson says the robbery took place between 25 October and 1 November and was discovered by a club member on Thursday.
Power tools were used to break into the safe and loud sounds may have been heard by residents in the area, he said.
"A number of firearms have been taken from the property and it is a priority for police to locate those items and locate those involved," Wilson said.
"We understand the concern around events involving firearms.
"Police are treating this seriously and are pursuing a number of leads to identify these offenders and locate the items they've stolen."
Police want anyone who has information relating to this incident to contact Hamilton police. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers.