Police have launched a media appeal after two women were indecently assaulted in the town centre of Whakatane on the 16th of March.
Whakatāne Police say they received another report of a third woman being indecently assaulted on the 6th of April and are seeking more information.
According to police they are looking for a young European boy aged between 14 and 16-years-old with a solid build and brown hair and a distinctive stretcher ear piercing..
Detective Sergeant, Darren Thomas suspects the young man has possibly been involved in other offences which have gone unreported.
He says, “There is a possibility that there are other offences that have gone unreported, and the number and pattern of offences would suggest that this young man is living locally and someone must recognise him, particularly given the ear piercing."
Police are asking the public to report any suspicious behaviour in the area.
Detective Sergeant Thomas says, “His actions are not just inappropriate antics; they are indecent assaults that can impact on women’s feeling of safety. We need to identify this young man and put a stop to his behaviour before he offends again."
Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.