An Otago man is being deported from Australia in relation to the stabbings in Queenstown over the weekend.
Photo: 123rf
Two men were flown to Dunedin Hospital after being stabbed in a street brawl in the tourist town on Sunday.
The altercation, which may have involved up to 15 people, was sparked when words were exchange between two groups of men - both believed to be New Zealanders- about 2.30am on Sunday.
Police yesterday said the two men who were stabbed were now in a stable condition following surgery, and officers had spoken to one of them.
A member of the other group was struck in the head by a wine bottle.
Police said a 20-year-old Otago man was detained entering Australia at about 7pm yesterday and would be returned to New Zealand.
A warrant for his arrest was issued after he boarded the plane.
The New Zealand Police are working with their liaison officer based in Sydney and the Australian Federal Police to have him returned, though the timeframe for this was yet to be confirmed.
Another man has been identified as being responsible for the bottling incident and was being spoken to by the police.
Detective Senior Sergeant Malcolm Inglis extended his thanks to those involved in breaking up the brawl on Sunday morning.
"I'd also like to commend the officers who first arrived on scene, who administered first aid to the victim who had life-threatening injuries.
"The investigation team has worked extremely hard over the past two days to get a resolution in this case, as this type of offending is rare for the Queenstown area."
Police are continuing to investigate the incident and wanted to hear from anyone who saw what happened or who had information that might assist.
People can contact Queenstown police on (03) 441 1600 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.