Woman assaulted in Taradale home

Police are appealing for help from the public following an assault in a Taradale home.

Hawke's Bay Police are appealing for help from the public following an incident in Taradale, Napier.

At approximately 8am on Thursday morning, a woman at an Auckland Road address answered a knock at her door.

She was home alone.

Detective Sergeant Darren Pritchard said the man convinced the woman that he was from a government agency.

"The woman allowed this man into her home, believing he was there as an agency employee. He then demanded money from the victim before a minor assault place."

The offender then left the address with items of clothing and a phone belonging to the woman.

"Although she was badly shaken, she was not injured."

The offender is described as Maori, of solid build, in his mid-twenties and wearing dark-coloured clothing.

Mr Pritchard is asking local residents to check their properties.

"Residents in the Auckland Road and Mission Road areas can help by scouring their properties for any items the offender may have discarded.

"If anything unexpected is found, residents should contact Napier Police Station and report it, so police can take a look."

Napier Central Police Station can be reached on 831 0700.

Alternatively information may be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Hawke's Bay Police reminds residents to always seek proof of identification before inviting anyone unknown into your home.

If you're ever unsure of a visitor, do not invite them in and instead arrange a meeting time outside of your home in a public place.