A man who was stabbed in the leg on Taranaki Street in central Wellington last night was given "lifesaving" emergency first aid by a passer-by before emergency services arrived, police say.
Police say the man was stabbed in the leg after he and his associate became involved in a 'prolonged argument' with another small group. Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen
The victim and his associate had become involved in a "prolonged argument" with another small group outside the Wesley Methodist Church before he was stabbed about 8.50pm, Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch said.
"The male offender left the scene along York St after the incident and Police are seeking the help of the public to identify him.
"He is of medium build, around 175cm tall, wearing a dark baseball cap and light-coloured hoodie."
Police believed the occupants of a white Mitsubishi L300 van that was parked in the church carpark and left shortly after the stabbing may have witnessed the incident.
They asked the van's occupants to contact the police.