Youths charged after horseback attack and school arson in Hastings and Napier

Sunday's fire was the second arson within two weeks at the Riverslea School, Hastings. Photo / File

Two teenagers have been charged with a horseback attack, and another referred to youth services after a man was allegedly assaulted behind the Swansea Village library in Flaxmere on the weekend.

Hawke's Bay CIB Detective Sergeant Craig Vining yesterday said two youths were on horseback when they attacked a 19-year-old victim behind the library about 11.30am.

The offenders allegedly used at least one of their horses to kick the victim before they dismounted,assaulted him further and took his property.

Vining said the pair, aged 14 and 16, would appear in the Hastings District Court tomorrow and again next month.

Police also have referred a 13-year-old to Youth Services after a burglary and arson to Riverslea School, Mayfair, Hastings on Sunday.

It was the second arson within two weeks at the Riverslea School, which suffered moderate damage.

Three or four youths had allegedly entered the school grounds about 11am, breaking into an office, stealing property and damaging a worm farm before setting fire to several areas including heaped-up vegetation placed against a classroom.

Vining said police believed others were involved and were still investigating.

Police are still seeking a man who was armed with a knife when he entered the Pita Pit on the corner of Kennedy Rd and Georges Drive. He demanded money from the sole staff memberthen left the store with a small amount of cash heading in the direction of Thackery St.

The man was wearing dark-coloured clothing, gloves, one black sock and one white sock and no shoes. He was carrying a black Puma backpack.

Police are searching for a light coloured (possibly grey or silver) people mover, possibly a Honda Odysseyseen on Georges Drive before the robbery, with two males, possibly of Maori descent, in the front seats.

Further surveillance stills of the individual who robbed the store will be released when available.

• Anyone who has information about the damage to Riverslea School, is encouraged to contact Vining at the Hastings Police Station on (06) 831 0700 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.