The occupant of a second-storey motel unit in Alexandra received a "hell of a fright'' when they woke to find a man in the room early yesterday, police said.
Detective Alan Lee, of Alexandra, said the sole occupant of the unit was "clearly upset and got a hell of a fright'' but was not physically hurt.
He declined to say whether the occupant was a man or woman.
The incident happened about 2.30am at the Alexandra Heights Motel in Centennial Ave.
"We have no idea whether we're dealing with a burglar, a prowler or someone who entered the wrong room by mistake, so we're keeping an open mind on that,'' Det Lee said.
It appeared nothing was taken from the room.
However, police wanted to hear from witnesses who might have seen the person involved.
The man was described as a fair-complexioned Maori or Polynesian, aged 20-30, of slight build and about 175cm-177cm tall, who had slightly wavy black hair and a high forehead.
He spoke with a high-pitched voice and appeared timid when confronted, the unit's occupant told police.
He was wearing a distinctive floral-design, white, red and black collared shirt and black trousers.
"The description of this man is such that a friend or family member could not help but recognise them, '' Det Lee said.
A scene examination was carried out and some forensic exhibits were removed for analysis.
Det Lee reminded residents and visitors to be vigilant about security, closing windows and locking doors.
