Christchurch Police are appealing for public assistance following a hit-and-run incident that left a cyclist seriously injured in Burnside earlier this week.

Emergency services were called to the intersection of Grahams Road and Westburn Terrace at around 9:05am on Wednesday 23 July, after a crash involving a car and a cyclist.

The cyclist was taken to hospital in a serious condition.

Police said the driver initially stopped at the scene but left shortly afterward without checking on the injured cyclist.

The vehicle involved is described as a white SUV, possibly a Subaru. The driver is described as Indian in appearance, aged between 40 and 50, approximately 178cm tall, of large build, and with a tattoo on his forearm. He was last seen wearing a blue turban and grey hoodie.

Police are urging anyone with information that may help identify the driver to contact them on 105 and quote file number 250724/8060