Off-duty cop in hospital after serious assault

A policeman is in a critical condition after being assaulted in Tuakau this afternoon. Photo / Martin Sykes

A police officer is in hospital tonight after being assaulted while trying to break up a fight in Tuakau, south of Auckland.

Counties Manukau police are investigating the assault, understood to have taken place when the off-duty officer and a neighbour tried to stop a fight after a group of youths gathered on Elizabeth St about 4pm this afternoon.

The injured officer was struck from behind and kicked in the head and torso.

Neighbours who witnessed the attack helped the man back to his home where he lost consciousness. He was taken to hospital in a critical but stable condition, and he is understood have partially regained consciousness.

Neighbours who witnessed the attack came to assist.

The scene is currently cordoned off and police are continuing to speak to witnesses. No arrests have yet been made.

- NZ HERALD ONLINE