Police search for man following January attack of teen girl on Greymouth Wilderness Trail

Detective Sergeant Kirsten Norton, of Greymouth, said the girl was attacked about 5pm on the West Coast wilderness trail in the Blaketown area, behind the BMX Park and near the aerodrome. Photo / Wikimedia

Investigations into the alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl while walking on a Greymouth track in January are ongoing.

The man wanted in relation to the incident, which happened on January 16 at the West Coast Wilderness Trail in the Blaketown area, is not yet in police custody.

While the assault happened back in mid-January - it was only reported to police three days ago.

When news of the incident first came to light Detective Sergeant Kirsten Norton of Greymouth said the girl was attacked about 5pm on the evening in question, behind the BMX Park and near the aerodrome.

"She was walking south when she was attacked from behind by an unknown male and sexually violated in an area off the track."

Today, Norton said while the offender had not yet been apprehended, police wanted to reassure the public they were doing all they could.

"Police officers are continuing to thoroughly investigate the matter," she said.

Meanwhile Norton urged members of the public to take the usual safety precautions and to make sure someone always knew of their plans when they went for a walk.

"As with any track in New Zealand, police encourage members of the public to walk with a friend," she said. "There is often little to no cell-phone coverage on these track and, should you find yourself in trouble in any way at all, being with a friend will keep you safer."

Norton said police were unable to release a description of the offender at this stage.

She said the 14-year-old victim continued to receive support.