Police will have an increased presence around Alexandra schools during pick up time after reports of a person approaching children.

Police believe the two incidents are connected and are following strong lines of enquiry to locate the person.

Alexandra Police are looking for a woman in a white car after two attempted abductions around Alexandra and Clyde this week.

Senior Constable Graham Perkins said the first incident took place on Earnscleugh Road, near the lookout road (Hawksburn) at about 3.20pm on Monday afternoon.

An 11 and 12-year-old brother and sister were approached by a woman in her 60s or 70s, who was very insistent that they get in her car to give them a ride home.

The offence is attempted abduction (Under 16) under section 210 (1) of the Crimes Act 1961.

On Wednesday around 4pm a 13-year-old female was approached by a similar looking woman on Centennial Dr near the Molyneux Aquatic Centre.

She was described as having frizzy hair with missing front teeth, and possibly driving a Toyota electric car.

Snr Sgt Perkins said information was given to teachers at the Clyde School by the children affected, before police were called.

“Contact with the students and parents has been made to ensure safety plans have been put in place. The school has also been advised by Youth Education Officers and Youth Aid Officers from Alexandra who will liaise with the principal over the sharing of information.”

Snr Sgt Perkins said there were similarities between the offences and a third incident reported in Dunedin on October 17 where a 10yr girl was approached after her touch rugby game at the Oval by a female of similar description.

The woman asked if she wanted to see her cat she had in the car. 

“A passerby intervened and took the girl away then reported to police.”

Snr Sgt Perkins said hopefully someone may have seen the vehicle driving around the region and be able to provide further information, even CCTV footage from home cameras or dashcams may assist.

Police are reminding anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour to call 111.