Teenager arrested over 'cowardly' assault

File photo / NZ Herald

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested over a "cowardly" attack on a fellow teenager outside a party in Dunedin.

Police said the assault on the 16-year-old boy happened on Malvern St outside a house party between 10.30pm and midnight on Saturday.

The teenager arrested over the incident will appear in the Youth Court on Friday morning.

Police said their investigation was ongoing and a number of people were still to be interviewed to determine if anyone else was involved.

Detective Sergeant Rob Hanna earlier described the attack as "cowardly" and an "unprovoked sustained assault".

"This included kicking the victim in the head and body area after he had fallen to the ground."

The victim suffered a fractured jaw, suspected fractured ribs, and bruises and grazes.

He was taken to Dunedin Hospital where he underwent surgery for serious but not life-threatening injuries.

Anyone who witnessed the incident who had not yet spoken to police was asked to contact Dunedin police on 03 471 4800.