Police are in the early stages of an investigation.
"Police are speaking with those involved and working to piece together the exact circumstances of the incident," she said.
The scene will remain cordoned off while an examination takes place.
Emergency services were alerted to the incident in Miller Rd, about 2pm this afternoon.
The altercation occurred near the entrance road to Dunedin Airport on the Taieri Plain.
A resident said he believed the alleged altercation was about the victim's dog.
"A couple of [people] were screaming and fighting about dogs, and then one ended up on the ground," he said.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police on 105, and quote event number P052247485.