Wairoa Police are investigating a reported sexual assault in Mahia.
A young woman was allegedly assaulted by an unknown man while she was exercising on the beach, opposite Mahia Golf Club, on Wednesday morning.
Her alleged attacker was described as tall and of solid-to-fat build, with a beard or goatee.
He was wearing dark-coloured clothing comprising a jersey made of wool or similar material, worn with a hooded jumper underneath.
Police were working closely with the woman and Victim Support services had been arranged.