Police hunt man after Wellington park attack

Police are appealing for public help finding a man who attacked two women in central Wellington this morning.

Detective Sergeant Paris Razos said the man approached two women in Cuba Mall at 4.40am, talked to them and began walking with them.

In nearby Garrett Street, behind Glover Park, the man's behaviour changed, Mr Razos said.

The man grabbed one of the women and stole her handbag. The second woman tried to help her friend. The man kicked and punched both women before fleeing on foot with the handbag through the Garrett Street carpark in the direction of Vivian Street.

One woman suffered minor hand injuries in the attack.

The man was described as Maori or Polynesian; of short, stocky build; clean shaven with long dark hair worn in a ponytail. He was wearing a grey T-shirt and stretch denim jeans.

Police ask that anyone who might be able to provide further information contact the Wellington CIB.

- NZPA