Sex attacker pounces on woman walking alone

A young woman spent two hours hiding in a West Auckland garden after being indecently assaulted by a man at the weekend.

The 19-year-old was walking along Central Park Drive in Henderson between 2.30am and 3.30am on Sunday, when she was grabbed by a man who jogged out of a nearby walkway.

Police say he threw her to the ground and indecently assaulted her through her clothing.

After a struggle, the man, who appeared nervous, suddenly stopped, got up and ran off.

The terrified woman ran to a nearby address and hid in the garden for two hours, fearing he would return and try to hunt her down.

At daybreak she made her way to a garage, where she called for help.

Detective Sergeant Megan Goldie said police were not sure why he ran away so suddenly. He might have been spooked by a car, recognised his victim or changed his mind at the last minute.

Either way, Detective Sergeant Goldie said there was a good chance he would try again and he might be carrying a weapon next time.

Police would like to hear from any other women who think they might have been approached by the same man.

He is described as being of skinny build, aged about 20, with short, dark hair. He wore black trouser with white stripes on the side and a black top.

Anyone with information should phone Henderson CIB on 839-0600.