Police asking for witnesses

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Police investigating a serious assault in Māhia on New Year’s Day morning have asked for any witnesses to come forward.

A 34-year-old man was knocked unconscious, suffering a concussion and facial injuries, after he tried to break up an altercation between an unknown group of people about 12.40am that morning.

The victim was hospitalised but has since been discharged.

“This should have been a night of celebration and sadly hasn’t turned out that way,” said Detective Sergeant Steve Smith.

“We know the fight involved between 20 to 30 people in a carpark of a Newcastle Street hotel, and it was likely witnessed by a number of people.”

Detectives from Wairoa and Gisborne have been investigating and need to hear from anyone with information or footage.

“This can be provided by calling 105, or by making a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, using Update Report,” Det Sgt Smith said.

Please quote the file number 240101/2665.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.