Police say elderly people in Auckland have been robbed and assaulted over the past few days by a man impersonating a police officer.
They say seven people have been targeted in Orewa, Takapuna, Northcote, Herne Bay and Westmere.
Detective Inspector Scott Beard says the man talked his way into his victims' homes by claiming he was a police officer investigating burglaries in their neighbourhood.
He then stole, or tried to steal, handbags, cash cards and other belongings.
Detective Inspector Scott Beard says the offender dressed in plain clothes and it's possible more than one person was involved.
He says a genuine police officer will always be able to provide proper ID, and people should ask to see it before letting anyone in.
