A man was seriously injured when a beekeepers' party turned ugly.
The annual beekeepers' shout was held at Horeke Tavern, South Hokianga, on Saturday night but police said "historic issues" flared up at some point and a staff member was set upon by patrons.
Police described the assault as "pretty shocking" and said it left the victim with multiple injuries.
It is understood up to three men set upon the barman, who suffered bruising to his face and head, a gash under one eye and suspected broken ribs.
It is thought one of the men involved in the attack had earlier been asked to leave the pub due to concerns over his behaviour.