A woman is currently undergoing surgery in Dunedin Public Hospital for injuries she received when she was attacked in her Dunedin home this morning.
The incident occurred at her address in Duncan St, City Rise, at about 8.30am, after she answered a knock to her front door.
The woman suffered stab wounds to her neck and face and associated bruising.
Her three-year-old daughter was also in the house but was unharmed in the incident.
The woman managed to fend off the assailant and left the address with her daughter.
The man was not known to the victim. He is described as light skinned, around 6ft (184cm) tall with short hair and facial stubble. He was wearing jeans and a black hoodie.
Police are currently undertaking a scene examination at the woman's address. ESR have been called from Christchurch to assist.
This was a serious and potentially life-threatening incident and police seek assistance from members of the Dunedin community who might have information that may assist with the investigation.
In particular, Police are seeking information about any suspicious activity in the Duncan Street area between 7am and 9am this morning. It may be that members of the public noticed someone who matches the general description of the assailant, who was acting unusually or out-of-character either before or after this time.
People can contact Dunedin Police with information on 03 471 4800 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The police are yet to speak fully with the victim and will do so when she recovers.
Police also ask people living in the Duncan St area to search their properties and if they find any items that may not belong to them to report this to police.
Some 20 police staff are working on the inquiry.
ENDS
Released by Detective Inspector Kevin Hooper, Dunedin Police