A woman was seriously assaulted by a stranger on a Mt Albert walkway last night.

Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Friend says police were called to the Waterview Shared Walkway, near New North Rd, at 6.28pm.

“From our inquiries so far, we believe this male has left the area in the direction of Harbutt Ave.”

Police are providing support to the victim, who received moderate injuries and was shaken by the attack.

They also released a photograph of a male they believe can assist with their investigation.

Anyone who recognises the man can contact police via the 105 phone service or online, using 221213/1298 as a reference number.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

 ‘Can’t even go for a walk’

Mt Albert locals expressed dismay online after news of the attack broke this morning. Many took to the local community Facebook page to question the safety of their neighbourhood, one asking: “What’s happening to our neighbourhood?”

“Feel like I can’t even go for a walk around here these days safely,” another wrote.

“Maybe people should just stop attacking women who are just trying to live their life and go on a run,” one woman offered.

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The suburb, part of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s electorate, has been the location for similar attacks in recent years, two of which ended in death.

Lena Zhang Harrap, who had Down syndrome, was killed in September 2021 while walking near the summit of Ōwairaka.

Lena Zhang Harrap was murdered by Shamal Sharma in September 2021. Photo / NZ Police

The 27-year-old was active in StarJam, a non-profit organisation that gives those with disabilities an opportunity to perform.

“Lena may have been small in stature but she had the biggest heart,” Lynfield College principal Cath Knell said last year.

“Her wicked sense of humour backed up by a mischievous smile brought much joy to those who taught her.”

Shamal Sharma pleaded guilty to her murder this year and will be sentenced in March 2023.

Tom Coombes, a 25-year-old university student and volunteer firefighter, was found dead on a Mt Albert walkway in May.

In May this year, volunteer firefighter Tom Coombes was killed on the nearby Roy Clements Treeway.

A passer-by held Coombes’ hand as he bled to death and the attack rocked the local community, taking place on a walkway commonly used by local schoolchildren.

The 22-year-old murder-accused, who continues to have name suppression, remains in custody at the Mason Clinic psychiatric facility.