Police seek witnesses after brutal assault on Tongan holidaymaker in central Auckland

The Tongan national assaulted in central Auckland's Kitchener St was on holiday and due to return home in two weeks' time. Photo/ Google

Police are asking to hear from witnesses to a brutal assault which left a Tongan man in a critical condition in Auckland City Hospital.

The man, who is in New Zealand on holiday, has serious head injuries.

He was seen walking down the middle of Kitchener St in central Auckland, holding up traffic, when a vehicle stopped near him.

Words were exchanged between the man and the occupants of the car.

A short time afterwards the car drove off at speed and the victim was left lying on the ground.

Police said they needed to know how the victim received his injuries and asked those in the car on Kitchener St to come forward.

The victim is on holiday from Tonga and was due to leave in two weeks' time. His wife is flying over next week to be with him.

Several members of the public have already contacted police with information.

Police would also like to hear from anyone else who may be able to assist with the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Auckland City Police on 09 302 6400, or call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.