Police are hoping viewers of the television show Police Ten-7 will help them find the man who sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl.
Television crews were in Rotorua in late January but the item will feature on the show tomorrow.
Detective Jeff Alpe of the Rotorua police said the girl wasassaulted in Kuirau Park about 7pm on Sunday January 8.
"The victim was visiting Rotorua and the park that evening, when she found a pair of glasses and tried to locate their owner. In doing so, she spoke with a man who followed her into the public toilets, locked the door and sexually assaulted her. He then left the area and she sought help from a member of the public and police were called."
Mr Alpe said the offender told the girl his name was Alan.
He was described as being in his 40s, wearing glasses, with a goatee beard and a grey beanie. At the time of the assault he was wearing a light brown coloured raincoat or jacket, with a black top under the jacket and jeans.
Mr Alpe said the man was driving a green, long wheel based vehicle, similar to a four wheel drive, with a spare wheel on the back.
"There were a number of other people in Kuirau Park at the time, and police would particularly like to hear from a group of people who were travelling in a blue van. They are believed to have left the Park immediately before the attack," he said.
"This was a serious and distressing assault and police would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the park at the time or who have any information about this attack."
Rotorua Police area commander Inspector Bruce Horne said he was concerned for the victim of this attack.
"It was a very distressing incident for the victim and her family," he said.
"I am also mindful that this crime had an impact on the wider community in Rotorua and many people have been appalled that such a nasty assault occurred in a beautiful place that is special to many Rotorua residents. Please help us by coming forward if you know anything."
Anyone with information can provide it anonymously through the independent Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.
The item will screen on Police Ten-7 on TV2 at 7.30pm tomorrow.
