Women runners grabbed

Police are asking women to be careful after a young man tried to grab a runner.

A 16-year-old was running on Southland Rd, Hastings when a young man on a bicycle tried to grab her around the waist. However, he fell off.

He then chased her until she ran into a nearby dairy.

At 6am Tuesday a woman in Taradale reported a young man frequently circling around female runners on his bike, making them feel uncomfortable.

"We're keen to hear of any other incidents like this or anyone behaving suspiciously around female joggers," police said.

It's also timely to remind women jogging to be safety conscious, especially if you are in an isolated area, a police spokesman said.

If possible, take a cellphone with you that you can ring for help on or take photos of anyone suspicious. Also consider jogging with others, police said.

Any reports of suspicious behaviour or incidents should be reported to the HB Police on 06 8310700.