Police hope other sexual assault victims will not be deterred from laying complaints, after it was revealed an attempted rape in Kawerau was made-up.

Eastern Bay Police say a 16-year old girl created a false story about a man trying to rape her in her bed in Kawerau last month.

Acting Area Commander, Inspector Anna Jackson says the validity of the alleged incident became questionable a few days into the investigation.

The complainant then confirmed the allegations were false.

Because of the teen's age she won't face charges, but has been referred to Youth Aid.

Inspector Jackson says the girl's story has been a "cry for help of a different kind".

15 investigators and the Kawerau Police have been involved in trying to solve the case - as well as members of the community.

Police are stressing they always take these cases seriously, and people should come forward if they have concerns about anything that's happened to them, or someone they know.