An elderly Tokoroa couple were bashed after approaching three youths who were damaging their fence last night.

The married couple, aged in their 70s, arrived home to their Weka Pl address to find three men damaging a fence that separates their property from an alleyway.

The elderly man asked the group to stop and was verbally abused by them.

One then produced a full can of alcohol and threw it at the man striking him on the back of the head.

The force of the blow caused the victim to fall to the ground stunned. He managed to get to his feet again with the intention of retreating inside his address to contact police.

The man's wife came to his aid and as she did the same offender walked onto their property and punched the woman in the face, knocking her to the ground unconscious.

The offending group then ran up Weka Pl toward Aotea Cr.

Neighbours who heard the commotion rushed to the elderly couple's aid and ambulance staff attended and transported the couple to the Tokoroa hospital for treatment.

Police using a dog tracked the group through several streets and alleyways but lost the trail some distance from the scene.

The offenders were described as three male Maoris, aged between 18 and 20 years, two could be described at fat while the other was skinny. All were wearing dark clothing.

Tokoroa Police Senior Sergeant Graeme Hill said described the incident as a "cowardly and despicable attack on two elderly people minding their own business at home".

"I urge anyone with any information that can assist in the apprehension of these offenders to contact us."

Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Tokoroa Police on 07 885 0100. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

- © Fairfax NZ News