Southland police are investigating the stabbing of an elderly man in his Mataura home on Saturday night.
The man, in his 70s, remained in a stable condition in Southland hospital after being critically injured in the attack, police said.
An unknown man had entered the property about 10pm, demanding money from the occupant of the flat, Sergeant Scott MacKenzie said.
''When the victim said he didn't have any money, the offender stabbed him once in the chest before fleeing the scene,'' Sgt MacKenzie said.
The small Southland settlement was shocked by the attack.
''You hear of [attacks] happening in different communities and you say 'well, never in our community'," Mataura Community Board chairman Alan Taylor said.
''When it happens in your own community it's a real concern,'' he said.
Police ask to hear from anyone with information on the attack, or who was near Main St, Mataura between about 9.30 and 10pm on Saturday.
The offender was described as being unshaven, average height and build, and at the time of the attack was wearing a grey hoodie and dark pants.
People with information are asked to call Invercargill Police Station on (03) 211-0400, or anonymously to Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
