A newspaper delivery contractor was assaulted and his vehicle stolen as he delivered papers in Marton in the early hours yesterday.
About 3.25am, the contractor was delivering newspapers on Skerman St, a police spokeswoman said.
As he got back in his vehicle to continue his route a man opened the door and pushed him out. A second man appeared and the contractor was assaulted and pushed to the ground.
The two attackers climbed into the vehicle and drove off in the direction of Wanganui.
Police were notified immediately.
The contractor was left extremely shaken and received minor injuries, police said.
He was treated by ambulance staff at the scene.
The stolen vehicle was described as a 2014 silver Mitsubishi Mirage, registration HLR633.
Later yesterday property from the vehicle was found by officers under the Kakariki Bridge, on the Palmerston North side of SH1.
Sergeant Marty Kilpatrick, acting officer in charge of the Marton Police, said the incident was a cowardly attack on a member of the public going about his daily work.
"We are appealing to anyone that has seen the Mitsubishi vehicle or any suspicious activity in the Bond and Skerman St areas last night to the early hours of this morning to contact police," Mr Kilpatrick said.
The first attacker was described as Caucasian, about 20 years of age, and approximately 2m tall.
The man was of solid build and had wispy hair.
He was wearing a dark-coloured hoodie and track pants.
The second attacker was described only as being of Maori descent, with no further information available at this stage.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we strongly encourage anyone with information to contact us immediately," Mr Kilpatrick said.
He can be contacted on (06) 213 4183.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.