Children and parents in Dunedin are being warned to stay alert after two children were approached by men in the past week.
Parents in Dunedin are being reminded to stay vigil after two strangers approached children in seperate incidents. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
The incidents occurred in the neighbouring suburbs of Halfway Bush and Wakari.
Detective Sergeant Dylan Ross said the first occurred last Tuesday about 8.30am on Three Mile Hill Road.
A member of the public intervened and the man to drove away, he said.
The second happened this morning on Shetland Street, about 5km from the earlier approach.
"The male driver asked the child to get into his vehicle to help him look for a lost puppy," Mr Ross said.
"The school child refused and the man drove away," he said.
"In both cases the children did the right thing, they did not get into the car and they told a teacher as soon as they got to school.
"We know that reports of incidents such as these can cause considerable concern for parents and other members of our community. We would urge everyone to be alert, not alarmed, and to take the opportunity to have conversations with your children about what they should do should they feel unsafe. This can be with a trusted adult, a teacher or police."
Police could not provide a description of the vehicle in either incident at present, a spokesperson said.
Anyone with information that could help police locate the man should contact officers on (03) 471-4800.
Alternatively, information could be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.