4 Jan 2013

Nelson police release identikit picture of attacker

9:47 pm on 4 January 2013

Police in Nelson have released an identikit picture of the man who beat and sexually assaulted a 62-year-old woman at the city's Victory Community Gardens on New Year's Day.

A computer generated picture of the attacker.

A computer generated picture of the attacker. Photo: NZ POLICE

The woman suffered substantial injuries in the attack.

Police have described her attacker as Maori or Polynesian and about five foot six inches tall, with a short "number three" haircut.

He has distinctive tattoos described as tribal in style on both arms.

Police say they are continuing door to door inquiries and are maintaining high profile patrols in the Victory Square area as they search for the attacker.

Detective Sergeant Ian Langridge says police will also have a stand at the Nelson market in Montgomery Square on Saturday where people can bring any information they have about the attack.

A freephone number has also been set up for people to call with information.

That number is 0508 2674662.