Two youths arrested over church bashing

Two Nelson youths have been arrested for a bashing which cost a Foxton man his right eye.

The youths, aged 14 and 17, have been charged jointly with aggravated robbery and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

The bashing happened about 1am on Saturday near the Church Steps in Nelson and left the 44-year-old victim seriously hurt.

Both youths were to appear in Nelson Youth Court this afternoon.

Detective Sergeant Kevin Tiernan said the arrests were a result of basic investigative police work.

Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident.

Mr Tiernan said the victim was transferred to Palmerston North Hospital and has since been discharged.

"He has lost his right eye as a result of the bashing but his other injuries are healing normally."

- NZPA