Thanks for the replies.

It happened in New Zealand - Yeah we have crime here too

Krav Maga - I'm interested in this but currently only one club in Auckland,a good hour or so on the plane, none in Wellington so out the question but I am keeping an eye on it though.

Wing Chung - I thought of this as we have a club nearby and the wife states its the only martial art she will consider doing. I do shift work so its going to be tough. Boxing - not keen as I'm a old headbanger/metal fan from way back. Not sure the brain cells can handle much more. Did some Judo as a kid.

Sprays, guns etc out the question as illegal. But the bike lock maybe a good idea.

bkwentz - sound advice.