Police in Palmerston North are urging residents to be vigilant and to keep their doors and windows locked, as they continue to investigate the latest in a string of sex attacks in the city.
A 20-year old woman was sexually violated in her Linton Street home yesterday morning after a man got inside the house through an unsecured window.
It follows a similar attack on a woman in nearby Ferguson Street last Thursday, and two others in the same area in October and November.
Police have been investigating whether the cases are linked.
Acting Detective Inspector Neil Forlong said a team of 15 officers were now working on the investigation and patrols have been increased.
He said the public could help by keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity, and making sure their homes were secure.