Hamilton girl forced into car, raped

File photo / NZ Herald

A Hamilton girl has been raped after being forced into the back of a car on her way home from school, police say.

Police said the girl was walking home from school on February 27 when she was approached by a white vehicle on Durham St at about 3:20pm.

Detective Sergeant Robbie Hermann said a man got out of the vehicle and grabbed the girl.

"The offender has forced the victim into the back of the vehicle and raped her."

Mr Hermann said the victim took some time to report the assault because of the trauma and fear it had inflicted.

"This is not unusual for victims who have been traumatised to such a degree."

The offender is described as a clean shaven solidly built Maori or Polynesian man with short black hair.

He appeared to be about 20 years old and was driving a white hatchback car, police said.

Mr Hermann appealed for anyone with information on the attack to call Hamilton Central Police Station on 07 858 6200.

Anonymous information can be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.