Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
Police are appealing for public assistance following an attempted kidnapping in Fendalton in Christchurch.
In a statement, police said a woman was approached while jogging on Kotare St just after 6am on Monday morning.
They said an unknown man approached the woman and attempted to drag her away, however she was able to flee after a passing motorist intervened.
The woman is believed to be shaken but uninjured.
Police described the man as possibly of Indian descent, medium build, approximately 176cm-179cm tall (5'8"-5'9"), with short black hair and a short beard.
They said he may be between 25-33 years old and was wearing a dark-coloured vest (black or grey) and dark-coloured track pants.
One trouser leg was rolled up toward the knee.
Detective Mark Burrett said police would like to talk to anyone who may have seen the man, or were in the area when the incident happened.
"Vehicles were driving past at the time, and we are very interested in further descriptions of him, including whether he got into a car, or if anyone saw anything suspicious in the area," he said.
Police can be contacted on 105, quoting file number 221003/5623.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org.