Rapist broke into home

Police in West Auckland are hunting for a man after a woman was raped in her home in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A 45-year-old woman from New Lynn was attacked after the man, described as being "tall and light skinned", broke into her home and raped her.

The attack is thought to have happened between 3am and 5am.

Police say the offender, who was wearing shorts and a light-coloured T-shirt, had been walking around Tahi Tce and Rua and Fruitvale Rds and possibly lives in the area.

Meanwhile, in the nearby suburb of Avondale, two teenage boys repeatedly punched and kicked a 20-year-old man until he was unconscious.

The victim suffered serious head injuries and is in a critical condition in hospital.

Police said the attack happened shortly before 9.30pm last Wednesday, just outside Avondale Physiotherapy, on Rosebank Rd.

Several people stopped to help because they were concerned for the victim's safety and stunned by the "ferocity" of the attack.

However, they were threatened by one teenager, and were not able to stop the attack.

Police arrested one of the offenders, but were unable to catch the other.

Detective Sergeant Rick Veacock last night said the victim was in a serious condition and his injuries were thought to be life threatening.

"This was a sustained and vicious attack on a young local resident by two males who showed a clear disregard for the consequences of their actions," he said.

The offender at large is described as a Polynesian male in his late teens, of solid build and with short hair.

Police are appealing for anyone who saw the attack or has information to call (09) 820 5744 or Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111.