A 32-year-old Hastings man has been arrested after two elderly women who had won money on gambling machines were followed, attacked and robbed.
Photo: RNZ/ Dan Cook
Police said the women were robbed on Monday afternoon and one was treated in hospital.
Police believe the women may have drawn the attention of the man because they had won money on gambling machines.
He then allegedly followed the women - who were travelling from Hastings back to their home - and took their belongings and money.
Detective Sergeant Phil Sayers said it appeared to be an opportunistic offence and was "not thought to be behaviour prevalent across Hawke's Bay".
"As a community we condemn this behaviour, as it strikes at the heart of some our most vulnerable people."
The man is due to appear in the Hastings District Court tomorrow on robbery and other charges.