Taupō Police are investigating a serious assault that occurred at Lake Front Taupō at 3am on New Year's Day. They believe there were people in the area at the time who could provide vital information.
Police say a group of revellers had stopped to talk to another group sitting on a park bench. In a seemingly unprovoked attack, a man near the picnic bench was punched and knocked unconscious. The 20-year-old from Wellington was sent to hospital with a head injury and is now recovering at home.
It is believed there were a number of people who surrounded a parked white vehicle around the time of the assault. Police think some would have witnessed the assault or will have information that may help identify the offender.
Police also say there would have been a large amount of blood at the scene that passersby would have noticed. They say some may have spoken unwittingly to the offender. Information suggests he returned to the scene after police and ambulance left.
If you have any information that will assist this investigation, please contact Taupo Police on 07 378 6060. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.