Man allegedly used torch and screwdriver during late night attack on elderly Henderson woman

The woman was assaulted in her Dellwood Ave home. Photo / Rachel Maher

An Auckland man allegedly used a screwdriver and a torch as weapons during a home invasion last month which shocked West Auckland, court documents state.

The 36-year-old Henderson man was arrested today after more than two weeks on the run following the home invasion in Delwood Ave where he attacked a woman in her 80s on June 27.

He is set to appear this afternoon in the Waitakere District Court charged with aggravated burglary using a torch and a screwdriver as a weapon, and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to the elderly woman.

Both charges carry a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

Waitematā CIB Acting Detective Inspector Megan Goldie said the woman in her 80s is in a “stable” condition and is recovering with her family.

The woman suffered “serious facial injuries” and there was “no indication” she fought back.

Earlier, Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison had said police responded to reports of an aggravated burglary at a residential address on Dellwood Ave, Henderson, about 2.20am on June 27.

At the time, police understood a man had attacked the woman after she disturbed him in her home.

Dellwood Ave residents had been shocked at the news a “beloved” neighbour had been attacked.

One resident said the woman had lived on the quiet road since the 1970s.

She lived alone, after her husband died six years ago, and was as “fit as a fiddle”, according to a neighbour.

“She loved her arts and crafts … and everyone saw her taking her bins out and gardening.”

Residents said the popular woman was “very friendly”.