Man placed in induced coma after assault

A young man has been left with serious head injuries after being beaten and robbed in Napier yesterday.

The 22-year-old was near Kennedy Park, between Riverbend and Russel Roads when he was attacked about 4pm.

Detective Constable Mike Signal told NZPA it appeared the man had been kicked while on the ground and was taken unconscious to Hawke's Bay Regional Hospital where he was last night placed in an induced coma.

Mr Signal said the man had been in critical condition but had this morning regained consciousness - although he could not remember the incident.

"We are hoping to have a talk to him late this afternoon to see what he can remember and trace his movements."

A group of three to seven youths aged between 14 and 20 were seen in the area at the time of the attack.

The victim's backpack was stolen, containing CVs, an iPod and cellphone.

"We're after any information from the public in relation to finding any of those items on their property or any information on those youths seen in the alleyway around that time," Mr Signal said.

A second attack was reported in nearby Massey Crescent, but was not believed to be related.

A 20-year-old male was robbed by another man who then ran off down an alleyway.

Police were also investigating a possible stabbing reported about 3am today on Roberts Terrace but said few details would be available until they had spoken with the victim who was also at Hawke's Bay Hospital.

- NZPA