Sarah Mc Millan/cvnznews.com
Police have launched an investigation after two teenage girls were violently assaulted and robbed by a large group of youths near Takapuna Beach on Saturday night.
The incident occurred at around 9.30pm in an area behind restaurants off Hurstmere Road. According to police, the two victims had been spending time with the group for about an hour before the situation suddenly escalated.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams said the pair were separated, assaulted, and had personal items stolen. “We know members of the public will be upset by this behaviour and Police will not tolerate it in our community,” he said.
The victims managed to return home and alert family members, who then contacted police. Officers later located several of the alleged attackers at a nearby bus station. Police say the group involved was aged between 12 and 17, and most have now been identified. Charges are being considered.
A woman who spoke to CVNZ News, and asked not to be named for safety reasons, said her 15‑year‑old relative was among those attacked. She described the ordeal as “pretty horrific”, saying the girl had been punched and kicked but did not require hospitalisation. She said two other victims were injured badly enough to need hospital care.
Social media posts circulating after the incident allege the attack involved around 20 girls who lured several victims away from the beach to a secluded area behind the beachfront restaurants. The posts claim the victims were prevented from leaving for several hours and subjected to a prolonged assault, including being knocked unconscious, stomped on, strangled, and having clothing removed. The assault was reportedly filmed.
“These are young, small 14‑year‑old girls,” one post said. “They have suffered significant trauma.”
Police are urging anyone with footage or information to come forward as the investigation continues.
