"We now know that the incident evolved after a small discussion about the availability of a taxi," she said.
"The victim of the assault is still in hospital and, although his condition has improved, he will require ongoing medical attention."
Shakespeare Hotel and Brewery duty manger Roderick Cortes said he looked out of the window to see the flashing lights of police cars and ambulances on Albert St shortly after the incident.
He could see one man lying in the street, with a group of what looked like friends surrounding him.
It's not the first time there's been a street fight in the area, with Mr Cortes ringing 111 a year ago when a brawl broke out in the early hours of the morning.
"I noticed one guy in the middle of the street, but I didn't even see how the guy looked or who it was," Mr Cortes said.
"I didn't even know it was a fight until [Sunday]. When I see there's fighting in the street, I call the cops. It's my responsibility."
Anyone with information about the people involved is urged to contact Auckland Police Central CIB staff on (09) 302 6557.
