Cops hit and knocked out as league fans brawl

Police are warning league fans to behave ahead of this weekend's World Cup semifinals amid revelations a second officer was assaulted during post-match celebrations.

Two police officers have been assaulted in Auckland since late last month, according to police - who warn they will have a "significant presence on the streets" ahead of tomorrow's Rugby League World Cup semi-final between Tonga and England at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland.

A female officer was knocked unconscious in South Auckland on November 18 while police were trying to contain disorder after the Tonga-Lebanon match.

A police social media post yesterday says: "Over the past few weeks, two police officers have been assaulted and seriously injured by violent acts from members of the public."

A police spokesperson confirmed today that in the earlier assault, a male officer was hit in the face with a flagpole. The nature of any flag on the pole was not stated.

The officer, who arrested his attacker, required medical attention and is restricted to light duties. The male attacker was charged with assault with a weapon.

The assault happened on the evening of October 31 at the Otahuhu town centre.

A video shot that evening showed dozens of Samoan and Tongan supporters brawling on Great South Rd in Otahuhu.

The police said in the Tongan language post that they will have a "significant presence on the streets" ahead of tomorrow's Rugby League World Cup semi-final between Tonga and England at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland.

Scores of people have been arrested for violence and disorder offences among league fans during the world cup competition.

The Counties Manukau East police area commander, Inspector Wendy Spiller, said the female officer was king-hit and knocked unconscious by a male, who then disappeared into the crowd.

She is yet to return to work but is making a good recovery.

"Police will not tolerate this violent and cowardly behaviour," said Spiller.

"Our hard-working staff come to work every day to keep our communities safe, and the last thing they deserve is to be attacked or harmed."

"Someone out there knows who is responsible. We will do everything we can to identify the offender and hold them to account."

The police are warning of likely significant congestion around the Otahuhu Town Centre tomorrow night and that detours may be introduced to manage the flow of traffic.

There is an alcohol ban in and around the town centre and this will be strictly enforced. The police say they will have no tolerance of any violent or reckless behaviour.

Spiller said people acting recklessly and putting themselves and others at risk by riding on vehicles or setting off fireworks in crowded areas would not be tolerated.

"We will have a significant police presence in the area and will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to any behaviour which puts members of our community or our staff in danger."

Witnesses to the attack on the female officer are asked to contact Joe Hunter from Counties Manukau Police on 021 191 2070 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.