Police arrest man after Northland assault

Police begin their scene examination of an Otangarei property where a man was allegedly assaulted. PHOTO/ JOHN STONE

A 22-year-old Whangarei man will appear in court in relation to an assault that has left another man fighting for his life in hospital.

A Northland police spokeswoman said officers arrested a 22-year-old man last night and charged him with wounding.

A 42-year-old man remained in a critical condition in Auckland Hospital today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dene Begbie said the serious assault happened at a house in William Jones Drive, Otangarei on Sunday shortly after 3pm.

The victim was allegedly struck on the head with a piece of wood.

He was taken to Whangarei Hospital but transferred to Auckland Hospital where he had surgery on Monday night.

Officers completed a scene examination of the Whangarei property yesterday.

Anyone with information can contact Whangarei Police Station on (09) 430 4500 or anonymously on 0800 555 111.