The middle-aged couple locked themselves in the bathroom during a terrifying home invasion on North Stradbroke Island, while an off-duty police officer came to their aid.

Queensland Police said the couple, both aged 59, were at their Kawana Street, Amity Point home when they heard noises in their garage about 7.40pm.

Investigating, they found their male neighbour allegedly armed with a machete. The couple called police as the man allegedly smashed glass windows at the front of their house and hacked his way through the front door.

The couple fled into the bathroom, barricading themselves inside

As the man began allegedly hacking at the bathroom door police said the blade went through the door, hitting the 59-year-old man in the head and injuring him.

A nearby off-duty police officer heard the commotion, entered the house and confronted the machete-wielding man.

The officer distracted the man until more police arrived, and he was taken into custody after a "violent struggle".

The 59-year-old homeowner was treated for a 15cm injury to his head.

The 44-year-old Amity man was taken to hospital for treatment for chest injuries and was charged with one count each of wounding, enter dwelling with intent, serious assault police and wilful damage.

He was set to appear at Cleveland Magistrates Court on Wednesday.