Armed youths have targeted two Christchurch petrol stations in quick succession, with a failed robbery attempt followed minutes later by a successful raid about 1.5km up the road.

Chris Lynch Media understands the first incident happened just after 10pm on Saturday night at the Z service station on Moorhouse Avenue, where a group arrived in a stolen vehicle and attempted to gain entry.

Staff did not open the doors and the offenders left the area.

About 5 minutes later, the same group targeted the Z service station on Lincoln Road in Addington.

Chris Lynch Media understands two offenders got out of the vehicle while two remained inside.

The offenders were armed with a large knife, described as a machete, and threatened staff before stealing confectionery items including lollies and chocolate.

All four were wearing balaclavas, and hooded clothing.

The Lincoln Road premises was being treated as an active crime scene and was blocked off by police.

The stolen vehicle, a silver Toyota Aqua, was later found dumped on Poulson Street in Addington.

There were no reports of injuries, however the incident is being treated seriously due to the use of a weapon.