Hastings Police have arrested a 14-year-old believed to have been a main instigator in recent assaults in the CBD

Over the past couple of months there have been several unprovoked attacks by youths targeting vulnerable members of the community.

Police, with the support of local schools, have identified some of the youths responsible.

The 14-year-old has been charged in relation to three separate assaults, including last week's incident.

Several 12 and 13-year-olds have also been identified as having been involved in the recent assaults and will be referred to Youth Aid.