Elderly man attacked in his Hastings flat

Hastings Police are investigating the attack of a 79-year-old man in his Camberley flat at about 9pm last night.

At the time the victim who lives alone was watching TV when he heard a knock at the door. Without opening the door the victim pulled the curtains back to find three males aged approx 18-20 years wearing bandanas across there faces. They were carrying a baseball bat and a knife.

Police said in a statement today that one of the males demanded money, the victim opened a side window and told them all to leave at this point this same male has tried to climb through the window.

Fearing he would be attacked the victim has struck the male on the top of his head with a heavy object.

The offenders abused the victim before one of them took a large object from the garden and threw it through the kitchen window before they all fled possibly into Kirkpatrick Park.

A witness reported that around that time they saw a Blue Honda Civic parked outside the Takapu Road address with about 5 males inside.

Police said in a statement they were disgusted with this cowardly attack on an elderly man in his home.

"The victim is shaken but bearing up well considering the circumstances. Police commend the victim for doing the right thing in that he looked out the window rather than open the door. Police believe if he had opened the door then he would have been seriously assaulted," the statement said.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have information about who is responsible. It is believed that the male who was struck in the head may have swelling or injuries to the top of his head.

Any information regarding such activities maybe reported to Police on 06 8310700 or information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.