Nelson Police are investigating an incident in which a man was seriously assaulted in a roadside attack this afternoon.
The incident occurred on Gardner Valley Rd, in the Moutere, about 3pm today and Police are appealing to anyone with information that may help identify the attacker to come forward.
The victim of the attack was driving a white ute on the Coastal Highway. He told Police he overtook what is believed to be a maroon coloured Suzuki Vitara which was travelling slowly. The driver of the Suzuki has then overtaken the ute and both vehicles pulled off the highway and stopped on Gardner Valley Rd.
A witness has told Police he saw the vehicles on the highway and then stopped on Gardner Valley Rd where a male has got out of the Suzuki and assaulted the driver of the ute before taking his keys and driving off.
The victim has sustained multiple blows to the head along with damage to his vehicle.
The offender is described as part Maori, about 6ft tall and of solid build. He was possibly wearing grey track pants and a Chiefs training jersey.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone who has information that may help identify the offender is asked to contact Senior Constable Reuben McCormack Ph 546 3840. Information can also be given by calling Crimestoppers Ph 0800 555 111.
