Police Seek Help After Violent Rural Break-in Near Mataura

Police are seeking public help following a violent break-in at a rural property on Mataura Island Road early Tuesday morning.

The incident occurred around 6:50am on April 28 when intruders were disturbed at the property. A struggle broke out between one of the victims and an unknown man, during which the offender may have suffered an eye injury.

"During the struggle, the unknown man may have sustained an eye injury," said Senior Sergeant Gary Iddenten from Gore Police.

The offenders fled the scene with a significant amount of stolen property.

Police have released a description of one suspect: a man aged approximately 18 to 20 years old, gaunt in appearance with sores on his face, who was wearing a dark hoodie at the time of the incident.

Investigations suggest a Mazda Bounty utility vehicle may be connected to the crime.

Authorities are particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or who knows someone with a recent eye injury that could be linked to this incident.

Police are also appealing for residents and motorists in the wider Mataura Island area to check their CCTV or dashcam footage from Tuesday morning for anything that might assist with the investigation.

"Police are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have seen suspicious behaviour in the area, or who knows someone with a recent eye injury, which may be linked to this incident," Senior Sergeant Iddenten said.

The investigation is ongoing as police work to identify and locate those responsible for the aggravated burglary.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz by clicking "Update Report", or by calling 105. The reference number is 260428/5019.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.