A man who saw what was happening stepped in to assist the distressed woman. He took her to the safety of a nearby bar where staff called police. Her clothing was damp and she had neck and facial injuries. She was also shoeless.
Mr Crowe, who heads the investigation, praised the intervention of the man he described as "a good samaritan".
"It was a hell of a thing to do."
Mr Crowe said although the incident occurred early in the morning, there were still people around the Marine Parade and foreshore areas who may have seen something untoward or unusual.
"We urge them to contact us as soon as possible."
Taki-McLeod already has two warrants for his arrest for unrelated matters. Charges over the weekend incident are pending.
Any witnesses to the assault can contact Mr Crowe at Hawke's Bay Police on (06) 831 0700 or information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
