Arrowtown coward’s punch: Police renew appeal to identify man

Police have released a fresh plea for a man possibly connected to an incident that involved a teenager being hit with a “coward’s punch” after an Arrowtown wedding.

Images were released of a man who police believed could assist them with inquiries about a violent incident which occurred outside the Fork and Tap bar in December.

A police spokesperson said they believe the man was part of a wedding party for “Abi and Rob” that had been held at the Arrowtown Bowls Club earlier on December 21.

“We are unable to clearly identify him,” the spokesperson said, “and these are the clearest images we can locate.”

“One person was seriously injured in a coward’s punch - meaning the punch was served to an unsuspecting victim, not as a result of a fight.”

Despite the public appeals over the past few weeks, the spokesperson said no new information has been received.

Images of the man have been released by police as part of the investigation. Photo / NZ Police

Two images released of the man show him inside the bar, while another shows him socialising with a group at an outside table.

Police are urging anyone who recognises him to come forward. Photo / NZ Police

Police have urged anyone who has recognised the man to contact them on 105 to provide information with file number 251224/4386 quoted.

The man is believed to have been part of a wedding group that had earlier been at the Arrowtown Bowls Club. Photo / NZ Police

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.