An elderly widow who lives alone has been attacked in her rural Kawakawa home, after two women came to her door asking for fuel.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
The women, described as Māori and in their early to mid 20s approached the rural home last night looking for fuel before the 92 year old was assaulted.
Her home was then searched and property was taken.
The women then left the scene in a vehicle which police said could be an older style tan-coloured hatchback or liftback with damage to the front guards.
Detective Sergeant Greg Johnson said the victim was recovering in hospital, and is extremely shaken by the incident.
"This is an absolutely appalling incident and we know the local community in Kawakawa will be shocked and angered at how a vulnerable member of the community has been targeted."
Police asked anyone who may have seen the vehicle near Whangae Road in Kawakawa between 6pm and 7.30pm last night to come forward.