Queenstown police hunting sexual attacker after woman violated in her home

Police in Queenstown are hunting a man who sexually violated a woman in her home in Fernhill. Photo / Google

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

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

"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.

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

Police have issued an appeal for 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.

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.