Aggravated robbery in Hamilton 

A Hamilton mother was held up at gunpoint in her own home while her young children slept nearby.

The incident happened on Sunday night around 9:30pm.

Detective Sergeant Dave Grace says the woman was working on her computer when a man burst in brandished a hand gun demanding cigarettes and cash.

He says the victim described the man as male Maori or Polynesian, aged between 16 to 20, was wearing a beanie a leather trench coat and shorts which went to below the knees.

Police say it appears the man gained entry to the home via a ranch-slider.

Detective Sergeant Grace says they want to apprehend this man quickly before he does this again or something even worse.

Police are asking for reports of suspicious behaviour in the area or anyone who can identify the offender.