Witnesses wanted from Mt Kakepuku

POLICE investigating the serious assault of a meter reader in Kihikihi early this month have a new plea for information.

Detective senior sergeant Andrew Saunders said police would like to hear from anyone who was in the carpark area of Kakepuku Track, which climbs up Mt Kakepuku, between 4.30pm and 5.30pm on January 5.

The walking track's carpark is on the route two vehicles of interest are believed to have travelled from the crime scene on Oliver St, Kihikihi to where a stolen vehicle was dumped and set on fire at the Kāwhia turn off.

The investigation team is particularly interested in any sightings of the victim’s vehicle, a red Daihatsu Terios, registration LKN281, and a silver Nissan Primera, registration DHA220.

"We are interested in the movements of both vehicles and in identifying any occupants, as we believe they may be able to assist our enquiry team," the sergeant said.

"If you have any video footage or photographs taken on the day we would also like to hear from you."

Information can be provided via 105 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting file number 230105/8487.