Elderly woman tied up and robbed

File photo / NZ Herald

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An elderly South Auckland woman was tied up and robbed in her own home by a knife-wielding burglar, whose brazen violence has appalled police.

The woman was attacked when she opened her back door to collect her laundry at her home in Papatoetoe.

Police said the man wearing a balaclava and holding a knife, carried out the attack about 1pm yesterday.

The elderly woman, who was home alone at the time, was tied up with a scarf and bedsheet while her house was ransacked for jewellery and cash.

"We are appalled at the violent nature of this crime during broad daylight,'' said Detective Sergeant Simon Beal of Counties Manukau CIB.

Police appealed for any information that might help catch the offender.

They have asked members of the public who saw suspicious behaviour around Huia, Stonex and Kimpton roads and Bernard St, Papatoetoe, between midday and 4pm yesterday to call police.

Anyone with information can call Mr Beal of the Counties Manukau CIB on 09 261 1321. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.