Two men are wanted by police following reports of a serious assault near Bayfair.

A victim is believed to have been assaulted during the incident, and required facial surgery as a result of their injuries.

A post shared to Facebook by Bay of Plenty & Taupo Police says the incident happened earlier this month.

'At about 2.40pm on December 5 2018, two young boys were walking towards Bayfair shopping Centre to do some Christmas shopping where they were confronted by these two males at the entrance to the Alley way between Leander Street and Farm Street, Mount Maunganui.

'One of the victims was seriously assaulted and required face surgery as a result. The offenders stole a number of items from victim and then casually walked to Bayfair Shopping Centre.

'This was an unprovoked cowardly attack and they need to be held accountable for their actions.”

Anyone information that could assist police is urged to contact Tauranga Police on (07)577 4300 quoting file number 181205/9467.

Alternatively information can also be shared anonymously via the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111.