Police speak to Nelson attack victim

File photo / APN

Nelson police have today spoken with a man who was bashed unconscious in a vicious attack early on Saturday morning.

Hairdresser Brent William Powell, 48, suffered severe head injuries in the assault Hardy St, in central Nelson, just after midnight.

Detective Pat Nally said Mr Powell was this morning in a fair condition, and was able to speak briefly with officers.

He had been in a coma but was moved out of intensive care at Nelson Hospital yesterday, and would be transferred to Wellington Hospital by air ambulance today.

Mr Powell was attacked as he walked home from a private party of jazz enthusiasts at a Tasman St house.

He lay unconscious for about seven hours before a jogger found him and alerted the emergency services.

His injuries included an intracranial bleed, severe swelling about the head and face, multiple facial fractures, a broken jaw and broken teeth.

Police today renewed their appeal for anyone in the area at the time to come forward with information.

- NZPA