Security guard knocked out during attack

File photo / NZ Herald

A security guard was knocked unconscious during an assault early today on Whanganui Hospital grounds, police say.

The officer aged in her 30's, was completing foot patrols in the lower area of the grounds at the time of the assault, Detective Simon Te Paki said.

She had earlier responded to an alarm activation in a hospital workshop building.

The officer was found unconscious by hospital staff and taken into the hospital for treatment.

She was treated overnight for concussion and bruising and has now been discharged and is recovering at home with family, Mr Te Paki said.

A police scene examination was underway in the area where the officer was found, which should be finished later today.

Police are also viewing CCTV footage obtained from the hospital grounds, he said.

"It is not clear at this time as to whether the earlier alarm activation in the hospital workshop building and the assault on the female officer are linked."

It was believed that two males wearing dark clothing were involved, Mr Te Paki said.

Police were interested in any sightings of the two males or anyone acting suspiciously in and around the Whanganui Hospital grounds between 1am and 5am today.

Information could be passed to Mr Te Paki on 06 349 0638, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.