Auckland assault victim dies

Tarun Asthana was always fun to be with, say friends.

A 27-year-old has appeared in court in connection with an attack on a trainee primary teacher who died in Auckland hospital this morning.

Grenville David McFarland, a Naval rating, appeared before Auckland District Court on a charge of assault.

He did not enter a plea and was remanded on bail remanded on bail until November 15.

Police said more serious charges were likely.

Trainee teacher Tarun Asthana, 25, had been on life support in Auckland City Hospital ever since the attack in the CBD early on Saturday morning. He suffered a serious head injury when he fell onto the pavement after being punched in the face.

Mr Asthana's father arrived in Auckland late last night and was able to say goodbye to his son this morning before the machines keeping Tarun alive were turned off.

His mother, Yvette Asthana, has kept a vigil at his bedside and had been praying for a miracle.