Hitchhiker assaults motorist, steals car in Hawke's Bay
A man has been bashed and robbed by a hitchhiker who then stole his car after leaving him injured on the side of a road in Hawke's Bay.
The man was discovered on State Highway 2 at Whakaki, near Wairoa, on Sunday at around 10.45pm, Detective Sergeant Daniel Kirk says.
A sign greets drivers to Wairoa. Photo: SNPA
The male hitchhiker, who was picked up in the afternoon or evening, assaulted the driver, took his personal belongings and also stole his car.
The hitchhiker is described as in his 30s with a solid build, short cropped hair and a Ta moko and was spotted near Gisborne Park Golf Club earlier in the day.
The injured man was taken to Hawke's Bay Hospital for treatment. Photo: SNPA
Det Sgt Kirk says the man's distinctive look makes it likely he would have been noticed by other motorists as he was believed to have been making his way to Hawke's Bay, Manawatu or Rotorua.
He said police would also like to hear from anyone who saw a white 2005 Nissan Wingroad, registration FQL20.
The injured man was taken to Hawke's Bay Hospital for treatment
– With NZN
