Man stabbed on Franklin Rd in Ponsonby during Christmas lights event

Hundreds turned out for the switching on of the Franklin Rd Christmas lights on December 1. Photo / Dean Purcell

A man has serious injuries after he was stabbed as crowds enjoyed the Christmas lights on display in Franklin Rd, in central Auckland, last night.

Inspector Jason Greenhalgh, of Auckland, said the man was in a serious condition in hospital this morning after receiving what were thought to be stab wounds.

The incident occurred between Arthur and Heke streets on the busy road leading to the popular shopping and nightlife hub Ponsonby Rd. Police were called about 10.15pm.

A number of police were called in to help with crowd control due to the Christmas lights on display at the time, Greenhalgh said.

The lights have been a pre-Christmas fixture on Franklin Rd for 25 years and were turned on to a crowd of hundreds by Governor General Dame Patsy Reddy on December 1.

More than 100 homes usually take part.

Cordons were put in place following last night's incident, but removed after 1am. A scene guard remained on site overnight.

Witnesses are urged to contact police on (09) 302 6400 or by calling anonymously on 0800 555 111.