A ''dirty'' burglar is on the loose and police are concerned about his intentions.
A man, aged in his mid-20s, was disturbed while trying to get into a York Pl house about 11.15pm on Wednesday, Sergeant Steve Aitken, of Dunedin, said.
''People should be alert,'' he said.
The offender was aged about 25, ''with a backpack, brown hair and quite dirty-looking''.
The incident could be linked to a similar one last week, in which a male was interrupted while trying to enter a Queen St house through a window.
Police were unsure of his motivation and were concerned.
Anyone with information that could help was asked to contact Dunedin police on 471-4800. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Suspicious activity should be reported immediately on 111.