Woman left on side of road after sexual attack

Police hope a Hamilton sex attack victim's distinctive footwear may help them trace the woman's movements on New Year's Eve and the morning of New Year's Day.

Investigators hope someone may recognise the description of the woman's shoes and backpack as they try and piece together the woman's movements.

Detective Sergeant Carl Moon, of Hamilton CIB, said the woman was walking home in the early hours of New Year's Day when she was approached by an unknown man in a black car and offered a ride.

"We believe she was taken to a secluded part of the Forest Lake/Minogue Park area where she was sexually violated," Mr Moon said. "The man then left her on the side of the road and fled."

Mr Moon said detectives were hoping someone might recall seeing the woman and could help police piece together a time line of her movements.

"The woman was wearing distinctive purple shoes with wide straps, and a red back pack.

"Her movements and their respective timings are critical to the enquiry so we need to hear from anyone that has seen her at any time during the night of New Year's Eve/New Year's Day to come forward with their information," he said.

People who may recall seeing the woman should contact Mr Moon at the Hamilton Central police station.

- NZPA