Two Whangarei Boys' High School students attacked on first day at school

One of the two students of Whangarei Boys High School was attacked and robbed on Manse St in broad daylight. Photo/Michael Cunningham

It was a far from ideal first day at school for two Whangarei students attacked on their way home this week.

Police are investigating both attacks on Year 9 Whangarei Boys' High School students on Tuesday afternoon. Sergeant Claire Carter said two youths appeared to have followed a 13-year-old student on foot before approaching him on Manse St about 3.15pm on Tuesday.

One kicked the back of the student's leg, causing him to fall down. The student's backpack and his watch were stolen.

The student was also told to empty his pockets. Both attackers then fled.

The student's grandmother said he was on his way to a bus stop on Mill Rd when he was attacked near the New World carpark. He was not injured but was "cut up" about it.

She said her grandson has become "very quiet" since the attack but returned to school. The attackers, she said, appeared to be aged 15 or 16.

High school principal Karen Gilbert-Smith said the victims have been supported by senior staff while police investigate. The school does not know who the attackers are.

She would not say where the second attack happened.

"Obviously, it's a far from ideal way to start a year at school for the two young men involved but they have been well supported by their families and the school, and have counsellors available to them if they need further support."

Anyone who has information on the attackers is asked to call Whangarei police on (09) 470 4500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.