Central Hunter police have appealed for information after the New England Highway robbery near the Aberglasslyn Road intersection.

Just after 5am a man walked into the station, approaching the console attendant for cigarettes.

The 23-year-old worker refused to sell cigarettes without seeing ID, prompting the young customer to buy chocolates and again ask for tobacco.

Refused a second time, the customer produced a small handgun and pistol-whipped the attendant before demanding cigarettes again.

He also attacked the attendant with a hand-held EFTPOS machine, striking him in the side of the head.

The attendant withdrew to a back office before the thief took chocolates and a drink.

He was last seen walking west on the highway towards Fourth Avenue.

The clerk was not seriously hurt in the incident.

Detectives investigating the incident would like to speak with a young man who may be able to assist them with inquiries.

He is described as being caucasian, aged between 16 and 19 and skinny.

He was between 170cm and 180cm tall and last seen wearing a blue hooded jacket with the hood pulled over his head and long khaki coloured pants.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333