Police investigating after woman assaulted at Mahia, south of Gisborne

The assault happened at the beach on Ormond Dr opposite the Mahia Golf Club. Photo/Google Streetview

Police are investigating a sexual assault on a young woman yesterday who was exercising on the beach in Mahia, south of Gisborne.

Detective Sergeant Daniel Kirk, of Wairoa Police, said the assault happened early on Wednesday morning.

The woman was assaulted on Ormond Dr, Mahia Beach, opposite the Mahia Golf Club.

"Police are working closely with the woman and victim support services have been arranged," Kirk said.

"Her alleged attacker is described as a male, tall and of solid to fat build, with a beard or goatee."

He was dressed in dark-coloured clothing, including a jersey made of wool or similar material and a hooded jumper underneath, Kirk said.

Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the Mahanga, Opoutama or Mahia areas between 6am and 7am on Wednesday morning and noticed any vehicles or anybody behaving suspiciously.

"Please don't hesitate to contact us," Kirk said. "Your information may seem small, but could be vital to our investigation."

Contact Wairoa Police on 06 838 3513 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.​