Manhunt still on after violent rest home attack

Police want to speak to 45-year-old Rangi Joseph Harris, who they have described as "a person of interest". Photo / Supplied

Police are still looking for a man in connection with a violent assault on a 75-year-old woman in an East Auckland rest home yesterday.

The woman was visiting a family member at the home, in a retirement village known as the "Howick Hilton", when the attack occurred around lunchtime. The alleged offender was visiting the same person.

Police want to speak to 45-year-old Rangi Joseph Harris, who they have described as "a person of interest".

A Counties Manukau police spokeswoman said this morning he had still not been found.

Harris, whom police have said should not be approached, is believed to be travelling in a silvery-grey 2008 Kia Sportage, registration ESJ406.

He has links to the Counties Manukau, Sandringham and Freemans Bay areas.

Anyone who sees Harris or knows where he is should call 111 immediately. Anyone with further information on the assault should call the Counties Manukau crime squad on (09) 261 1321 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Detective Sergeant John Love told the Herald yesterday the attacked woman had facial fractures and other injuries, but was in a stable condition in hospital.