Man identified following serious assault outside Z petrol station in Silverdale, Auckland

Police want to speak to this man in relation to a serious assault at a Silverdale petrol station. Photo / Supplied

A man sought by police after another man was critically injured in a serious assault at an Auckland petrol station has been identified.

Detective Senior Sergeant Marcia Murray said the incident occurred about 6.30pm on Monday after two men got into a verbal altercation outside a Silverdale petrol station.

A Z Energy spokeswoman said the assault occurred outside the Z station in Silverdale.

The victim approached the other man and was struck in the face, falling and hitting his head, Murray said.

The other man then put the victim in the recovery position before leaving the petrol station.

The Z Spokeswoman said a staff member administered first aid to the person and contacted police.

The man had critical injuries, and had to undergo surgery at Auckland City Hospital.

He was now in a serious but stable condition and remained in hospital, Murray said.

Police had released a photo of a man who could be able to assist police with their inquiries.

Murray said thanks to members of the public they had been able to identify the man, who was now assisting police with their inquiries.

"Police would like to thank members of the public for their assistance in this matter," Murray said.

Anybody with information could contact Waitematā Crime Squad on (09) 839 0697 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.