13-Year-Old Robbed at Knifepoint in Auckland CBD Incident

A 13-year-old boy was assaulted and threatened with a knife outside the Britomart McDonald’s in Auckland’s CBD on March 10, 2024, after he refused to surrender his sneakers valued at $250. The incident, which has raised concerns about youth safety in the area, occurred around 15:40 local time while the boy was with friends.

The teenager was confronted by a group of approximately six older boys who demanded his Nike TN shoes. When he hesitated, one of the attackers allegedly struck him in the face and issued a chilling warning: “Give me your shoes or I’ll stab you.” Terrified, the boy complied and fled into nearby stores, seeking refuge from his attackers. He ultimately found safety inside an Adidas store, where security personnel intervened.

Kurt, the boy’s father, shared the distressing news with The New Zealand Herald, describing the moment he received a call from his son. “He was crying and said, ‘Dad, some guys have stolen my shoes,’” Kurt recounted. He emphasized that his son, like many boys his age, had gone out to enjoy time with friends but ended up in a traumatic situation. “He’s only 13. This shouldn’t happen in broad daylight,” Kurt stated.

Upon learning of the attack, Kurt and his wife rushed to the city to ensure their son was safe. Although he emerged physically unscathed, the emotional impact of the robbery left him shaken. Kurt expressed disappointment and concern over the lack of public intervention during the attack, stating that no bystanders stepped in to help.

Police confirmed they received reports of the assault and robbery shortly after the incident. They are currently investigating the matter and have urged anyone with information to come forward. This incident follows closely behind another alarming case where a 13-year-old girl was brutally attacked inside the same McDonald’s just five days earlier. The recurrence of such events has intensified worries regarding youth violence and safety in Auckland’s central business district.

Kurt has called on local authorities to enhance police presence in the area, questioning, “A 13-year-old being robbed in broad daylight—what is happening to our city?” He and his family, who relocated from Sydney to New Zealand six years ago, stated that this incident has shattered their sense of security in a place they once considered safe.

As investigations continue, the community is left grappling with the implications of such violence and the urgent need for measures to protect its youth.