At about 3.15pm, a 24-year-man approached a 10-year-old girl in Jillet Street, in the vicinity of the Titahi Bay School.

There he spoke to her before gathering her in an embrace, which frightened her.

She was able to break free, but the man gave chase catching her a short distance away where he again cuddled her.

A passing motorist stopped, intervened and Police were called.

The man was located and spoken to about the incidents.

He has since been arrested and charged with Indecent Assault. He has been bailed to appear in the Porirua District Court next week.

Police acknowledge the actions of the passing motorist which ensured the safety of the child.

No other persons are being sought in relation to this matter.

Source: New Zealand Police.