A woman who assaulted her partner after he spoke about cheating on her has been sentenced to community work.

Joyce Lillian Lane was driving with the victim to his house in November when the victim "made a comment stating he was going to sleep with someone else", police prosecutor Sergeant David Grey said on Tuesday.

Lane pulled over and asked the victim to get out of the car, but he told her to "just drop me off home".

Lane then punched the victim multiple times in the side of the face.

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A scuffle ensued, and ended with the victim getting out of the car and hitting his head on the door frame when Lane pushed his shoulder.

Lane appeared in the Whanganui District Court and pleaded guilty to common assault.

Mr Grey said the victim was also facing charges.

Defence lawyer Jamie Waugh said Lane had one previous conviction.

Judge David Cameron said he had to give Lane a "punitive" sentence.

"I do have some sympathy for you, but it has to attract a punitive element."

He sentenced Lane to 40 hours of community work, "which is the least I can give you".