Woman harassed for money in Countdown Hastings carpark

A woman was left shaken after being harassed in the Countdown Hastings carpark. Photo / Paul Taylor

A Hastings woman has been left traumatised after a beggar harassed her on Saturday night.

What was an ordinary shopping trip took a turn for the worst when a man wanting money confronted her.

After the woman, who did not wish to be named, declined the man allegedly got "nasty" and tried to take her wallet.

The woman's relative, Toni Watson, said the incident occurred sometime between 5pm and 6pm in the Countdown Hastings carpark.

"It's made her unsafe and not want to do her own shopping," Wilson said.

"She is an invalid so she barely has any money for herself really.

"She struggles day by day to get through, so having someone harass her and demand money has made her very upset."

A police spokeswoman said it is not a criminal offence to ask for money, however, depending on the circumstances of the incident a person could face charges, such as threatening behaviour or disorder.

"If police have sufficient information and evidence to charge someone with an offence, then a charge or charges could be laid," she said.

"Anyone who feels unsafe or threatened in any situation is asked to call police as soon as possible, with as much detail about the person as they can."

They advised anyone who did not want to give money to refuse politely and walk away.

General manager, corporate affairs at Countdown Supermarkets, Kiri Hannifin said the health and safety of their customers and team are "absolute priority areas for our business".

"The store were not notified and have not previously been made aware of similar incidents. The team will keep an eye on this going forward."