A man has been charged with the rape and attack of a Nelson woman following an alleged home invasion.
Police say the 28-year-old has been charged with aggravated wounding, burglary, rape and unlawful sexual connection, after an alleged attack in The Brook on Thursday night.
The victim was said to have alerted authorities by contacting her neighbours.
The West Coast man was captured by police shortly afterwards and appeared in the Nelson District Court on Friday where he was remanded in custody.
Police said the victim was being supported by her friends and family.
A scene examination was underway and police were working to trace the alleged offender's movements on Thursday.
He was believed to have been in Takaka during the day, before making his way to Nelson in the late afternoon, however it was unknown how he had travelled.
Police wanted to hear from anyone that may have given him a ride.
The man is described as European, 1.6-1.7m tall, and small to medium build.
He has medium length, brown hair and was believed to be wearing brown trousers and a brown polar fleece top or check shirt.
Police also wanted to hear from anyone acting suspiciously, or who might have been approached by a man matching his description in the Nelson Hospital and The Brook areas in the early evening.
Information can be provided to the Operation Windlass team on 03 545 9679.