Elderly couple terrorised in Hamilton

Police are hunting a man who terrorised an elderly Hamilton couple in their home early this morning.

Sergeant Dale Smith, of the Hamilton Police's proactive policing team, said officers were left both disgusted and perplexed at the man's behaviour.

"An elderly couple, aged in their 70s to 80s, were awoken and confronted by a man dressed in dark clothing who threatened them before making off.

"It appears the man has gone from room to room in the house smashing glassware and throwing food about before going to the master bedroom," Mr Smith said.

Police were called to the house on Seddon Rd in the suburb of Whitiora, about 6.40am.

A police dog and handler arrived at the scene within minutes but could only track the man a short distance before the scent was lost in the appalling weather conditions, Mr Smith added.

"This couple have lived in their home for over 60 years and now their piece of mind has been shattered.

"For not only their peace of mind but those of other elderly residents we're appealing for anyone with any information on the identity of the offender to come forward."

Mr Smith said police had not found any sign of forced entry into the couple's home and suspect a door may have been left unlocked earlier in the morning when the couple had got up, before returning to bed.

"This is a timely reminder that if you think you may have left a door or window open, go and check it.

"Overnight Thursday/ Friday there were a couple of opportunist burglaries of homes where doors had been left unlocked, we don't want to see a repeat of this morning's events so are asking people to check, then check again," Mr Smith said.

Anyone with any information should contact police.

- NZPA