Police need help to find knife-brandishing home intruder

Police are hunting a man who pushed his way into a Christchurch couple's home with a knife on Thursday afternoon and demanded money.

The man knocked on the New Brighton couple's door near the corner of Union and Mountbatten Sts just before 2pm, and a woman answered.

The offender pushed his way in while presenting what is believed to have been a dark-handled 20cm steak knife, police said.

When he demanded money, the woman retreated to the safety of a bedroom to alert her partner and call police.

Officers and a dog arrived within minutes, but the offender had already fled the scene, possibly down Mountbatten St.

A police dog tracked his trail but then lost it - it's thought the offender may have escaped by vehicle.

The couple are being supported by police and comforted by neighbours.

Investigators are asking the community to help them find the perpetrator.

He is about 170cm tall, of medium build and has been described as possibly Maori or Pasifika.

He was wearing a lightweight dark training jacket over a black hoodie, had dark trousers, dark running shoes, and was concealing his face with a pale-coloured scarf.

Anyone with information or who operates CCTV in the area is asked to contact Constable Roger Carran at the Christchurch Central Police Station on 03 363 7400.

Alternatively, details can be supplied anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.