Two banks were subject to armed robberies in Christchurch this afternoon.

At 1.45pm this afternoon a male Caucasian entered the ANZ bank on Cathedral Square/ Hereford Street and gave a note to a teller demanding money. A sum of money was handed over.

In another incident at 2.15pm a male Caucasian entered Westpac on Riccarton Road and also handed over a note demanding money.

DSS David Harvey says that police are investigating both incidents but it is too early to say if there are connections.

Anyone with information or who witnessed either is asked to contact police.