Man critical after fight, one arrested

A man has been arrested after he allegedly left another man fighting for his life following a fight in Huntly, in the Waikato.

The incident happened outside a fundraising event at the Taniwharau Rugby League Club about 11.30pm on Saturday, Detective Dale Anderson of Huntly police said.

"We understand our 35-year-old victim was felled with a punch to the face resulting in him smashing the back of his head on the roadway.

"The victim is a local man who is currently in a critical condition in Waikato Hospital's intensive care unit."

Mr Anderson said 15-20 people were in the vicinity of the attack when it took place.

"The arrested man has been charged with assault and more serious charges are pending. These charges will be determined by the outcome of the victim's injuries.

"We particularly want to hear from anyone who witnessed the punch being thrown and the circumstance leading up to the incident," he said.

Anyone with any information on Saturday night's assault is asked to contact Huntly police.

- NZPA