Police link hit-and-run and sex worker assault

Police at the scene in Herne Bay this morning. Screengrab / Murray Job

A hit-and-run incident in Auckland is likely to be linked to the assault of a sex worker shortly before the crash, police say.

Police say they are speaking to a 23-year-old man thought to have been driving a Ford Laser car found abandoned after hit-and-run about 4.30am.

He was found at a Hillcrest property this morning.

An area of Herne Bay near Sarsfield and Curran Streets was this morning cordoned off this morning as about 10 police officers - including a forensic team - examined the car.

The 36-year-old victim of the hit-and-run is in hospital with a serious leg injury. It is believed she was hit while getting out of a taxi.

Police said the sex worker, 43, who had been assaulted was also in hospital and was said to be in a comfortable condition.

Police spokeswoman Noreen Hegarty said the two incidents were "likely to be connected".

Any witnesses to the assault of of the sex worker or the crash on Ponsonby Rd are asked to contact Detective Sergeant Jason McIntosh on 09-820-5781.

- NZHERALD STAFF