Queenstown police want to hear from a young woman helped by the victim of a sexual attack shortly before the incident occurred early on Sunday.
In a statement Detective Sergeant Brian Cameron, of Queenstown, said the victim of the attack found a young woman ``crying and upset'' near Starbucks cafe, at the top of The Mall in Camp St, between 12.15am and 12.45am on Sunday.
The victim comforted the young woman and the pair were then believed to have taken a taxi to the Fernhill area, where the young woman was apparently living.
``As part of the ongoing investigation, police would like to speak to this woman.''
In an earlier statement Det Sgt Cameron asked anyone who witnessed ``suspicious activity'' near the Mackinnon Tce-Fernhill Rd intersection between 1.30am and 3.15am on Sunday to come forward.
A male, described as dark-skinned, of average height with an athletic build, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and speaking with a ``non-Kiwi accent'', entered the victim's house. He was not known to the victim.
``Whilst we have received a number of calls over the past 24 hours from members of the public offering information, we are yet to identify the male involved,'' he said.
It was possible he followed the victim as she walked along Fernhill Rd, between Sainsbury Rd and Mackinnon Tce, and entered the property through an unsecured front door.
Inside the property he entered the victim's bedroom and sexually violated her.
Det Sgt Cameron said the sound of the victim's cellphone repeatedly ringing ``spooked'' the intruder, who escaped by climbing out a bathroom window.
The victim did not suffer any injuries and was being supported by her partner.
Police advised the community to be aware of home security, lock doors and windows before going to bed and, if possible, install an alarm inside and sensor lighting outside properties.
Renters were advised to speak to their landlords to see what could be done to upgrade security.
Queenstown police (03) 441-1600, Crimestoppers 0800 555-111.
