A female jogger was sexually assaulted near Lincoln University about 8.15pm on December 3.
The victim was physically restrained during the attack, in a horticultural block near the university, Canterbury police said.
Detective Senior Sergeant David Harvey said Canterbury police were aware of a similar attack in Dunedin on November 30.
‘‘At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the two incidents are connected. However, investigators have an open mind and will make a determination based on the facts in both cases,'' Det Snr Sgt Harvey said.
The Lincoln attacker wore a black hoodie with a pocket at the front, and possibly jeans, and restrained the victim during the assault, he said.
In that case, the attacker used cable ties to restrain the victim before he was startled by a dog in the area.
He wore a balaclava and black clothing.
Two hours before the attack, another woman in the area was approached by a man wearing similar clothing and felt intimidated by his presence.
She provided a description which police released as a composite Identikit image earlier this month.
A Southern district police spokesman said the investigation into the Ross Creek Reserve attack was ongoing.
He would not comment further on the inquiry.‘‘Police are unable to discuss any information we've received while this investigation is ongoing,'' he said.
Southern police had been in communication with Canterbury detectives following the Lincoln attack, but ‘‘there is currently nothing to suggest these two incidents are linked'', he said.
The Lincoln attack came to light after the victim made a formal complaint to Canterbury police, Detective Sergeant Kylie Schaare said.
‘‘Police understand that this unprovoked incident occurred while the victim was jogging on her own in a horticultural area near Lincoln University,'' she said.
‘‘Due to the sensitive nature of the incident, certain facts will not be released in order to protect the identity of the victim and to prevent her any further distress.''
The victim had assisted police in producing an Identikit image of her attacker.
Inquiries were continuing.‘‘If you see anyone behaving suspiciously when you're out exercising or socialising, report it straight away,'' Det Sgt Schaare said.
Anyone with information that might help should contact Christchurch police on (03) 363-7400. Anyone with information on the Ross Creek attack
should contact Dunedin police on (03) 471-4800. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately on 111.
