Police investigating serious assault

Police in Palmerston North are investigating a serious assault outside the Highbury Shopping Centre last night where three people were hospitalised.

Detective Sergeant David Clifford said in a statement today the incident happened at about 7pm and appeared to involve rival gangs.

One man received a serious head injury and remained in Palmertson North Hospital overnight, while the other two were treated and discharged, one with cuts to his arm and another with cuts to his head.

Mr Clifford said a metal bar - possibly a tyre iron - may have been used in the clash, and urged any witnesses to contact police.

- NZPA