11-year-old girl flees after suspicious approach from man in West Auckland

The man approached the girl at about 8.30am while she waited for a school bus on Wairere Road. Photo / Suppleid via Google Streetview

Police are searching for a man who approached an 11-year-old schoolgirl on Wednesday morning.

The man, who was driving a dark red or maroon 4x4 type vehicle, approached the girl at about 8.30am while she waited for a school bus on Wairere Road in Waitakere.

He is described as being in his 30s, skinny and tall with curly brown hair.

Detective Senior Sergeant Kim Libby commended the girl who refused to talk to him and ran back home to family members who reported the incident later that day.

"The message we would like parents to pass on to their children is that if you are approached by anyone who you don't know or trust, run away to the nearest public place or shop and find someone who can call 111 immediately."

The approach comes after an 11-year-old boy was abducted by a man in a grey van from near the Ranui train station last week. He was sexually assaulted before being dropped back in the area four hours later.

Police are still looking for the man but say the boy has been to traumatised to give more details about what happened to him.

Libby said he wanted to reassure the public that based on the information they have so far, Wednesday's approach appears to be an isolated incident.

"We are hoping to be able to identify the man involved as soon as possible."

Police units have been in the area this morning talking to people in the area who may be able to assist with the investigation.

A police spokeswoman said there is no evidence to suggest the approach is related to an abduction in Ranui earlier this week.

Anyone who can assist with the investigation or may be able to identify the man involved is asked to call Police on 09 426 4555 or information can be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.