Police investigating Hastings incidents including arson and horseback attack

Riverslea School was the target of a second arson within two weeks yesterday. Photo / Supplied

Police are investigating several serious incidents in Hastings at the weekend, including an attack on two people by horseback riders on Saturday.

A 19-year-old man and his 8-year-old cousin were allegedly set upon by three people riding two horses in Swansea Village, Flaxmere, behind the library, at about 11.30am on Saturday.

Detective Sergeant Craig Vining said the offenders were described as in their early teens (13-16) wearing red and black clothing and bandanas.

The alleged offenders initially used at least one of their horses to kick the 19-year-old victim before they climbed off, assaulted him further and took his property.

The victim suffered minor injuries and is home with his family.

"CCTV footage of the incident has been obtained and is being reviewed. However, further information from the community is sought," Detective Vining said.

"This group of three offenders would have been quite noticeable given their mode of travel and police would like to hear from anyone who may have information in relation to the incident."

In a separate incident on Saturday two men in Heretaunga St West were allegedly attacked by a large group of youths at about 10:40pm.

During the incident bottles were allegedly thrown by the group, both victims were hurt and were briefly hospitalised.

Eight young people were located and dealt with by police. Some were expected to face charges in the Youth Court later this week, Detective Vining said.

Police are also investigating a second arson within two weeks at Riverslea School, Mayfair yesterday,

A group of 3-4 youths allegedly entered the school grounds at about 11am breaking into an office, stealing property and damaging a worm farm before setting fire to several areas including heaped-up vegetation placed against a classroom.

Moderate damage was sustained.

The incident follows an arson to the school on February 6 two
in which two small fires were lit, causing damage to the office block.

Detective Vining said students in Mayfair approached by police going door-to-door were "gutted" and clearly upset their school had been targeted.

If anyone has information regarding any of these incidents, they are urged to contact Hawke's Bay Police on (06) 831 0700 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.