Update: 3:19PM SOUTHLAND: NEW Zealand Police are investigating an incident where a four-month-old kitten called Hazel was burnt in Gore on Tuesday this week.

Police said the incident happened at an address on Sword Street between 7am and 1pm on the day.

“Hazel suffered burns to her face and body, but is now at home with family and is expected to make a full recovery,” NZ Police reported.

This incident has angered authorities with Police saying they do not tolerate cruelty to animals and were taking this matter very seriously.

“Police would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, no matter how minor you think it might be,” it said.

Anyone who any information about what happened to Hazel is urged to contact acting Sergeant Tara Lindsay of the Gore Police on (03) 2039300 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.