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An 18-year-old woman was sexually assaulted in New Plymouth early yesterday morning.
Detective Sergeant Debbie Gower said the incident occurred in a secluded spot near the Fitzroy Golf Club.
The attacker produced a gun and then sexually violated the woman.
The victim is recovering with family, Ms Gower said.
Police described the attacker as male, 16 to 18 years old, thin, dark skinned, 140-160cm tall and clean-shaven.
He was wearing baggy long pants, a dark-coloured hooded sweatshirt and a cap.
Police said he was probably familiar with the Fitzroy area and asked anyone who had seen him to contact them.
"This is a serious sexual assault and I urge anyone with information to come forward," Ms Gower said.
- NZPA
