Police are investigating an assault where a woman was attacked by two people dressed as clowns in the weekend.

A 22-year-old woman was assaulted while walking home along Memorial Drive, Hamilton, at around 3.15am, receiving moderate injuries.

'The two offenders were male and dressed as clowns,” says a statement from police.

'This was a very frightening experience for the young woman and Police are keen to identify the offenders and prevent any further such incidents.”

Police would like to speak to the occupants of a white van which was seen in the area at the time of the assault.

'We'd also like to hear from anyone who saw people dressed as clowns in the city between October 7-8.”

People with information about either incident are asked to contact Hamilton Police on 07 858 6200.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.

The weekend attack follows news of a series of creepy sightings of people in make-up and costumes that swept America last week.

A Twitter page titled ‘Scary Clown Sighting' has been set up to notify people of clown sightings in America.

The description of the page reads: 'Official clown sightings. Proceed with caution. We do not condone violence.”

Back in New Zealand, police say they have received numerous reports from people who are genuinely scared of some videos that are going around on social media of people dressed as clowns confronting members of the public.

'At this stage it appears to be somebody's idea of a joke, and those who have contacted us have said it isn't a very funny one,” reads a post on the New Zealand Police Facebook page.

'We want everyone to feel safe and be safe, so if anyone has concerns for their safety or becomes aware of any suspicious behaviour, please call 111 immediately.”