UPDATED: NT Police are searching for a man who they now say allegedly entered a Palmerston residence Wednesday night and raped a woman in her 80s at her home.

Police said they received a report of the sexual assault around 8:50pm Wednesday night, that had occurred at a home in Woodroffe.

It was initially alleged the man, who was unknown to the woman, entered through the back door of the house “before sexually assaulting the woman and fleeing the scene”, police said.

But on Friday police said investigations now indicate the man entered through the front door.

On Thursday, police asked for the public’s help to locate the suspect, but did not provide a description.

“Detectives from the Sex Crimes Unit have been investigating and believe the offender is adult male of Aboriginal appearance with a tall, slim build,” police said in a new statement on Friday.

“He is described as having wavy hair and was wearing a light top, dark shorts and thongs.

“Police have canvased the area for CCTV but are still appealing for anyone with information to come forward.”

Anyone with information about the incident or anyone with CCTV footage from the area at the time is asked to contact police.

“Members of the public are urged to contact police on 131 444, quote reference P26144746 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersnt.com.au,” police said.