By 3 News online staff
Tokoroa police are hunting three men following a "cowardly and despicable" attack on an elderly couple overnight.
The couple, in their 70s, arrived home last night to find three men damaging a fence that separates their property from an alleyway.
When asked by the man to stop, they verbally abused him. One of them threw a can full of alcohol, striking the elderly man on the back of the head.
He fell to the ground stunned, got back up and began heading towards the house with the intention of calling the police.
One of the offenders then came onto the property and punched the elderly woman in the face, knocking her unconscious.
The trio then fled up Weka Pl towards Aotea Cres.
Neighbouts rushed to the couple's aid before ambulances arrived and took them to hospital.
Police tracked the offenders through several streets and alleyways but lost the trail.
The three men sought by the police are described as Maori, between 18 and 20 years old. Two are said to be "fat", and one "skinny". All wore dark clothing.
"This is a cowardly and despicable attack on two elderly people minding their own business at home," says Snr Sgt Graeme Hill of Tokoroa police. "I urge anyone with any information that can assist in the apprehension of these offenders to contact us."
Tokoroa police's phone number is 07 8850100, or witnesses can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
3 News