The incident occurred when the victim and the suspect were walking in separate groups along Alfriston Road, and an altercation between the two groups broke out.
No one else was injured, police said.
The suspect and three others left the scene following the incident and were soon found by police in a car outside a nearby property.
It was unknown whether the two groups were known to each other prior to the altercation, however police did not believe it was gang-related.
Police and forensic staff were currently working at the scene and enquiries were continuing. Alfriston Road was still closed at 11.30am.
Police asked for residents of the surrounding area - specifically those between Claude Road and Shifnall Drive - to check their properties for any discarded knives.
Anyone with information was asked to call Counties Manukau Police immediately on 09 261 1321 or provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
