Queenstown Police appeal for help to catch sex attacker after woman violated

Police are still hunting for a man who broke into a woman's house in Queenstown and sexually violated her.

The man, who was unknown to her, broke into her home before sexually violating her in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Detective Sergeant Brian Cameron said the intruder has gained entry via an unsecured front door and gone into the victim's bedroom.

The woman's phone ringing repeatedly has spooked him some time later and he left the house by climbing out of the bathroom window.

Police want anyone who may have seen anything or anyone acting suspiciously in or around the Mackinnon Terrace and Fernhill Rd intersection between 1.30 and 2.45am to contact authorities immediately.

Detective Sergeant Brian Cameron said they want to hear from a young woman who was helped by the victim. The victim found this woman crying and upset near the Starbucks Café, situated at the top of The Mall, on Camp St, between 12.15 and 12.45am.

The victim has comforted this young woman and the pair are believed to have caught a taxi up to the Fernhill area where they both returned to their own homes.

As part of the investigation police would like to speak with this woman.

Cameron said the man - described as being of average height, dark-skinned and athletic build - possibly followed her home.

"An assault of this nature is of extreme concern not only for police but the wider community. It is very fortunate for the victim that the attacker has been scared off,'' he said.

The attacker was wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and spoke in a non-Kiwi accent.

The victim has undergone a medical examination and is now being supported by her partner.

Cameron urged people to check and lock doors and windows before going to sleep and, if possible, install an alarm or sensor security light outside entrances.

"Police are doing all that we can to identify the person involved but we are asking for the help of the Fernhill community to find the person responsible as quickly as possible to avoid any further such attacks."

Can you help? Contact Queenstown Police: (03) 441 1600 or CrimeStoppers anonymous on 0800 555 111.