A Nelson man who was severely assaulted in the city early on Saturday morning was left unconscious in a pool of blood up a private driveway.
Police say the attack occurred at about 12.30am in Hardy Street but the victim was not found until 7.30am.
The man, 48, suffered life-threatening head injuries and police say it is very lucky they are not dealing with a homicide inquiry.
The police would like to speak to anyone who has any information about the attack.