The Advocate spoke to several residents of the Kaumatua Cres over-55 Housing New Zealand residential complex who had concerns over the security of their homes. Most of the residents were pensioners.
The front doors to the houses were solid wood and residents said they would like to see Housing New Zealand install peep-holes or security screens so visitors were able to be identified before residents opened their front doors.
Housing NZ area manager for Northland Don Roberton said he was working closely with the residents in the 21-home complex on Kaumatua Cres on how they can provide additional security for tenants.
"We were shocked and concerned to hear about this incident and moved quickly to provide support to our tenant who was assaulted in his home after letting the offenders into his home following their request for help," Mr Roberton said.
"We encourage our tenants not to open the door at strange times if they do not know who is calling and we inform tenants to ask for identification if someone knocks on their door claiming they work for Housing New Zealand," he said.
A neighbour, who is a good friend of Mr Liddall and didn't want to be named, said she never opened the door unless she was expecting someone.
She said Mr Liddall initially met the teenagers on Halloween (Thursday) when they knocked on his door trick-or-treating.
"They asked for money, and when Ron said he didn't have any they kept coming back," she said. "Maybe he was just too trusting."
Whangarei Police Detective Andrew Glendinning, who is investigating the assault, said it appeared as though the teens did not take anything from Mr Liddall's home.
"However I certainly believe that was their intention," he said.
Mr Glendinning said Mr Liddall had learned a very hard lesson.
He said the teens did not have weapons and anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour should notify police.
No arrests have been made, however, Mr Glendinning said there are suspects they are keeping an eye on.
