(file image) Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi
A man will appear in court Monday after an assault outside a pub in central Auckland on Saturday night.
A police spokesperson said the victim at the pub on Albert Street was taken to hospital in a critical condition after the assault around 8pm.
He is now in a serious condition in ICU.
A 27-year-old man has been charged with intent to injure and will appear in Auckland District Court on Monday.
"This is a real tragedy, but what makes it worse is these incidents are completely avoidable," Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Allan said in a statement.
"They have a major long-lasting impact not only on those involved, but their friends and families, especially at this time of the year.
Police would like to speak to anyone with information or footage relating to this incident.
Police can be contacted on 105 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. Please reference file number 231216/8762.