An elderly landlord was bound and gagged by a knife-wielding man who stole cash and his car.
Police have a warrant out for the arrest of the alleged attacker - 23-year-old Alaric Eccleston - who is wanted on other charges.
They say the 70-year-old was at his Allender Drive homein Torbay, about 6.30pm on Monday, when he heard a knock at the door. He opened it to find the tenant armed with a knife and demanding his car and money.
"Because he was at knifepoint the old fellow was forced to comply," said Detective Peter Law, of the North Shore Crime Squad.
The man tied and gagged his landlord with a sock, but removed it when he started to choke.
Police say the attacker poses a strong threat to the community and were concerned he was still armed and could reoffend. They urged anyone with information to phone the North Shore Crime Squad on (027) 4949112.
And Waihi Police began an investigation into a vicious attack on a solo-father who was bashed in front of his children in the town yesterday.
Detective Sergeant Glenn Tinsley of the Waihi CIB said the man was eating his dinner with his 12 and 14-year-old daughters when two men and a woman burst into the family's home shortly after 6pm.
"The man, aged in his 50s, was punched about the head then struck with the blunt end of a tomahawk before being kicked several times."
"All this occurred in full view of his obviously distraught daughters," said Mr Tinsley.
The man was taken to Waikato Hospital by ambulance after he slumped into unconsciousness. Mr Tinsley said he remains in a comfortable condition.
"Police are aware of the identities of those involved. We are asking the group to give themselves up before any more harm is done."
Anyone with any information on what may have motivated the attack should contact the Waihi Police Station.
