Police have identified a man they want to speak with following a stabbing in Kaitaia but warn he should not be approached.
Officers investigating the stabbing that happened on Mathews Av in Kaitaia on Tuesday afternoon are asking for the public help and have released a photo of the man they want to speak with.
They are interested in any sightings of the man in the Kaitaia township and particularly near the Hunting and Fishing store on Commerce St.
"If you know who this man is, or his whereabouts, then we urge you to call 111 immediately. Do not approach him," police said.
A 22-year-old man remains in Whangarei Hospital in serious but stable condition after surgery overnight on Tuesday for his wounds.
Police said he would remain in hospital for some time, after he was flown from Kaitaia to Whangarei by helicopter in a serious condition.
Early enquiries have established a male was reportedly attempting to break into a vehicle in Kaitaia township.
Members of the public have intervened and the male has then left the scene.
The man has then gone to Mathews Av, where it is believed he was running through a number of properties and knocking on doors.
The 22-year-old approached the fleeing man and an altercation has taken place about 2.15pm.
It does not appear the two men are known to each other.
Police have spoken to a number of witnesses and have recovered what is believed was the knife used in the stabbing.
Anyone with information can call Kaitaia Police on 408 6500 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police thanked members of the public had already come forward to help.