Two arrested over street bashing

Two men are in custody after a New Plymouth man was knocked out in an allegedly unprovoked assault yesterday.

The 23-year-old victim ended up in hospital with cuts and bruising to his head.

Police told the Taranaki Daily News that the man was part of a group walking along St Aubyn St, when they were set upon by another group about 12.30am.

Detective Trish Clarke said police were concerned at the escalation of violence on New Plymouth's streets.

"It is becoming way too common and it's very dangerous," Mrs Clarke said.

Two 18-year-old men were arrested, one charged with assault with intent to injure and the second with assault with a weapon.

They are due to appear in New Plymouth District Court today.

- NZPA