Elderly Auckland woman assaulted in late-night home invasion

The “beloved” West Auckland elderly widow attacked in her home suffered serious facial injuries during a late-night invasion.

The 80-year-old woman’s attacker remains at large after the assault that left the woman in hospital in a serious condition.

A police spokesperson said the woman suffered “serious facial injuries” and there was “no indication” the woman fought back against her attacker.

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

“It’s understood a male offender has entered the property and, when disturbed by the sole occupant of the house, has assaulted them.”

Harrison said the Air Support and dog unit responded immediately but were unable to find the man.

A manhunt is underway for the attacker.

Police forensic investigators have arrived at the Dellwood Ave scene this morning. Photo / Rachel Maher

A police spokesperson said they are working with the woman and “wider inquiries into identifying to person responsible are ongoing”.

The residents of Dellwood Ave were shocked this morning 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 with her husband up until he died six years ago. She now lives alone and is 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.”

A smashed window at the Henderson house being looked at by police today. Photo / Rachel Maher

Residents said the woman was known by a lot of her neighbours and was “very friendly”.

None of the residents approached by the Herald this morning saw or heard anything from the incident.

One neighbour said he woke up when the “flashing lights from the police cars came into his window”.

There are several police cars on the street this morning, with officers going door-to-door asking neighbours questions. Others are taking photos of the inside and outside of the home.

Construction workers working behind the home said they often saw her gardening or in her home, and she would wave and say hello to them.

Police investigations are ongoing at the scene. Photo / Rachel Maher

Harrison said there will be an increased police presence in the area and a scene guard is in place while police investigate.

“Police want to hear from anyone who may have been in the area last night who saw something of note,” Harrison said.

“While at this stage no arrests have been made, the public can be assured we are working hard to locate the person involved.”

Anyone with footage or information is asked to contact police on the 105 phone service or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using Update My Report.

Please reference file number 240627/3439.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Rachel Maher is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. She has worked for the Herald since 2022.