The 21-year-old student attacked in her flat by an unknown intruder on Sunday evening was sexually assaulted, police have confirmed.
The University of Otago student had returned to her Albany St flat with a flatmate about 10pm and was assaulted by an intruder when she went downstairs to the laundry.
The intruder grabbed her from behind and placed his hand over her mouth.
She freed herself and ran upstairs.
The man fled through the back door.
Detective Sergeant Chris Henderson said the offender was described as a reasonably tall male caucasian, aged about 20, of thin to athletic build and dressed in black.
Police would like to talk to anyone who witnessed a prowler in the Albany St area.
Twenty officers had been assigned to the case, and forensic scientists concluded a scene examination of the flat yesterday.
He confirmed officers would be reviewing CCTV cameras as part of the investigation.
The flat was believed to be locked and police were trying to ascertain how the man got in.
The student intended returning to the North Island to be with her family.
Det Sgt Henderson reiterated Judge Stephen O'Driscoll's comments in the Dunedin District Court on Friday, when he warned students in the North Dunedin area to take care of their security and themselves, following the sentencing of a 26-year-old man for raping a female student.
"Students have to be aware of safety and take a common-sense approach," Det Sgt Henderson said.
• A 16-year-old girl Dunedin who was indecently assaulted early on Sunday is recovering, police say.
The girl was walking up public steps between Hocken St and Kenmure Rd between midnight and 12.30am, when she was indecently assaulted.
Constable Boyd Smart, of Dunedin, said given the circumstances, the girl was "doing OK".
Police had received assistance from the public and were continuing to appeal for anyone with information to come forward.
The offender is described as having short dark hair and wearing a brown hoodie, and dark blue or black trousers.
The incident served as a reminder for young people to look after themselves and their friends by ensuring people were able to get home safely.
