An elderly Dutch tourist who was attacked while he slept in a campervan in Northland scared off his assailants when he wrestled a baseball bat from them and hit one on the head.
The man and his wife were sleeping in Matauri Bay when they were woken by two men attempting to rob them about 11.30pm on Wednesday.
The tourists struggled with their attackers, and the husband, who police said is aged about 67, wrestled the bat from the attackers and struck one. The would-be robbers fled empty-handed.
Police are appealing for public help to identify the men, one of whom should have a large bruise or cut on his head.
Travellers with campervans or tents are being urged by police to stay in camping grounds to avoid being targeted by thieves.
Anyone with information about the attack should contact Constable Gary Lowe of Kerikeri police on (09) 407 9211 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
