UPDATED 4.21pm: The man involved in an altercation with a 15-year-old has been taken to Waikato Hospital for surgery to reattach some of his ear.
The 23-year-old was taken to Tauranga Hospital last night following a fight at a Links Ave home about 7pm.
Detective Sergeant Darryl Brazier said most of the man's ear had been cut off.
"It was quite a nasty laceration . . . this guy, having his severed but not completely off."
The man was transferred to Waikato Hospital today.
Police apprehended a 15-year-old who will appear before Tauranga Youth Court next week.
Mr Brazier said police recovered a weapon they believed was used to inflict the damage, but would not release more information on this as the matter was now being dealt with through the justice system.
EARLIER 7.43am: A man has been taken to hospital following a serious assault in Mount Maunganui last night.
The 27-year-old suffered a laceration to his ear after becoming involved in a fight with another person at a Links Ave house.
Detective Sergeant Darryl Brazier said police were called to the fight and were currently interviewing a suspect.
Anyone who might have information about the fight are asked to contact police on 07 577 4300 or information can also be provided anonymously by contacting the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
