Police search for man allegedly involved in attempted Hamilton kidnapping

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A man who allegedly tried to entice a nine-year-old girl into his ute as she walked home from school in Hamilton on Thursday is being sought by police.

Hamilton Child Protection Team Detective Paul Van der Zee said officers were called to Aberdeen Dr about 3.40pm after receiving reports that a man had tried to entice a nine-year-old girl into his ute.

The ute was described as having a blue cab and front with red sides on its tray.

"At this stage it appears the man has pulled up in his utility and told the girl to get in which she has refused to do and she has then begun to cry.

"Seeing this, a woman described as having long blond hair who was parked behind the man's ute in a silver coloured people mover type vehicle has got out of her car and intervened."

Thanks to the intervention of the woman, the man walked crossed Rifle Range Rd and into a park where a number of people were playing rugby. The good samaritan then left, Mr Van der Zee said.

"By the time police arrived the man and his vehicle have gone.

"We would very much like to speak to the woman who intervened to help the child and acknowledge the good work she has done and at the same time we would like to hear from anyone who can help us identify the offender or his vehicle.

"We don't have an accurate description of the offender however he has been described as having a pierced eyebrow and a piercing in his bottom lip.

"He was also described as having a distinctive large round hole in one of his ears."

Anyone with relevant information was asked to contact Hamilton's Child Protection Team on 07 858 6200. Alternatively, information can be left anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.