A shot was fired when a fight broke out on the road near the Golden Mile Tavern in Christchurch.
Detective Jo Parks said police are continuing to investigate an early-morning conflict on Trents Rd, Templeton.
She said police could confirm there was a fight on the roadside near the tavern and it appeared a shot was fired.
A man ran from the scene and left in a vehicle. He did not appear to be seriously injured but the incident was still a concern, Parks said.
"I would like to hear from the victim of this incident to ensure he is okay and in a good place - we have got footage from the event that shows him being assaulted," she said.