Witnesses sought after violent assault

Police are appealing for information following a violent sexual assault Hamilton East this morning.

Detective Sergeant Neville Ross of the Hamilton CIB said a young woman was walking home along Clyde St about 3.20am.

"As she has been walking along the footpath, near the police station opposite the Clyde Park, a man has been waiting in a gap in the bushes," Mr Ross said.

"As our victim, a woman aged in her early twenties, walked past the man grabbed her and put a knife to her throat and dragged her into some trees where he has indecently assaulted her."

Mr Ross said the victim tried various methods of dissuading what appears to have been a callous and brutal attacker before she managed to break free and flee west, taking refuge at a friend's home.

"The man also fled the scene but we're unsure at this stage the direction he took."

Because it was still dark and overcast at the time the victim has only been able to give a vague description of her attacker.

"We're looking for a Maori or Polynesian male thought to be aged in his thirties who was possibly unshaven, wearing a balaclava over his face with a blue/ white flannel shirt and possibly dark trousers," Mr Ross said.

"The investigation is still in its formative stages with our victim being interviewed by Detectives today. Given the serious nature of what occurred and the brief description we are keen to hear from anyone who may have noticed something untoward in the area early this morning."

Anyone with any information on the attack is asked to contact Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel Keall on 07 858 6200.

- NZ Herald staff