A woman has been left shaken after she was seriously assaulted in her Whangārei home overnight.

Police were called to Murdoch Cres in Raumanga, close to State Highway 1, about midnight after a report a person had been injured.

Whangarei Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer said the woman suffered moderate injuries during an assault in her home. She was taken to hospital for treatment.

Inquiries into the assault were now under way.

“Police are focused on identifying this person and understanding exactly what has taken place,” Pilmer said.

A guard is at the house and Pilmer said residents could expect to see an increased police presence.

A resident told the Northern Advocate they saw a police car stationed outside the home this morning and that the property had been taped off.

They said police were going door-to-door in the neighbourhood, telling residents a serious incident had taken place.

Murdoch Cres was also blocked off while police investigated.

The resident this afternoon could see forensic staff working in the area.

Pilmer said police wanted to hear from people who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, including vehicles, in the area between 4pm and midnight yesterday.

“We would also like to hear from anyone who may have seen any vehicle leaving the area at speed between 11.30pm and 12am last night.”

Information can be provided to police via 105, quoting file number 251125/6316, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.