Five arrests after rocks thrown at rowers

Five teenagers have been arrested after they threw rocks at rowers from a Hamilton rail bridge.

The incident happened about 7.30pm yesterday and was caught on camera by a tourist, Sergeant Craig Taylor of Hamilton police said.

"A group of about nine youths have been seen throwing rocks from the Claudelands Rail Bridge down on to a group of female rowers below," he said.

"One girl suffered an injured hand in the incident while the crew's coxswain narrowly avoided being struck by a large rock before the team sought shelter under the bridge."

Five boys, aged between 13 and 15, have been charged with assault with a weapon and Mr Taylor said police inquiries into the identities of others involved were continuing.

The 13-year-old, who had only just been released from police custody after being involved in a fight in the central city that afternoon, was released into the custody of his family.

A 14-year-old and three 15-year-olds were held in custody overnight.

They were due to appear in Hamilton Youth Court today.

"With schools breaking up for exams and then the school holidays, last night's incident serves as a timely reminder for parents and caregivers of the importance of adequate supervision of young people," Mr Taylor said.

- NZPA