Trashing of flat terrifies Otago uni student

An Otago University student who discovered four unknown women trashing his Hyde St flat yesterday says crime on the North Dunedin party street is "getting worse".

The student, who did not want to be named, said he was "terrified" after arriving home about 1am to find furniture and rubbish strewn across his living room, bathroom light fittings smashed and the four women.

"I was terrified. I asked them what they thought they were doing.

"They just laughed and said 'you should lock your door'."

Nothing was taken from the flat.

"I imagine if I hadn't walked in at that point stuff would be gone."

Two flatmates were asleep, he said.

The police arrived soon after.

One flatmate, Liam Gower, 21, said the incident was the latest in several "third world" events - including fights, burglaries and threats - to occur on the street since a group of young people moved there in April.

Gower wanted the flat's tenants he believed were responsible for the behaviour to be evicted. "I'm sure the police are doing everything they can.

"But there have been multiple incidents, I want them out."

He was aware of residents who had discussed addressing the issue themselves. "Some have talked about taking stuff into their own hands."

Student Accommodation property manager Tasi Mala, whose tenants other Hyde St residents blamed for the crime spree, said he wasn't aware of significant issues with his tenants.

Police said they wanted to speak to the women who entered the flat to ascertain what their motives were.