A homicide probe is underway after an elderly woman was killed during a home invasion in Northland on Thursday night.
Police were called to "reports of an intruder" at a house on Taraire St, Kaikohe at about 11:30pm.
One of the occupants, who Newshub understands was an elderly woman on dialysis, was seriously injured during a struggle with the intruder and, despite efforts from emergency services, died at the scene.
Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston, of Northland, said police are speaking with witnesses to identify and locate the intruder, who left before officers arrived.
Far North Mayor Moko Tepania told AM the woman's death is a "tragedy" for the community.
"I live here in Kaikohe as well - it's the seed of our district here in the Far North so obviously just really tragic circumstances surrounding this death," Tepania said. "I know that people will be waking up and feeling a little bit gobsmacked... anywhere in Kaikohe is like 5 minutes from everywhere else so it's obviously very close to everyone in this community.
"We'll be feeling a little bit shocked over these circumstances but, if there's anything I know about the people of Kaikohe... we always wrap around, we're very strong and we'll get through this."
Johnston said the investigation is well underway and assured locals police are working hard to hold the person responsible to account.
"We know residents will be waking up this morning to this shocking news and we want to reassure them our enquiries are well underway to locate the person responsible and hold them to account for their actions," he said.
“We would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area overnight and saw something, or someone, which may assist us with our enquiries."
Anyone with information was urged to contact the police on 105 quoting file number 230602/1746, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
