Police are investigating a sex assault on a woman in Taupo.
Detective Sergeant Tony Manunui said a 22-year-old woman was grabbed by a man in a service lane leading to the rear entrance of Urban Retreat Backpackers about 10.45pm on Thursday.
"A struggle between the pair ensued and the victim ended up on the ground but managed to fight her attacker off and scream for help."
The offender then ran off.
Mr Manunui said police had looked at CCTV footage from the area and inquiries were continuing.
