Police are seeking information to identify the victim of a vicious assault which took place in the midst of New Year's Eve celebrations at Mount Maunganui.
The assault took place at about 11.30pm on Marine Parade, between Banks Avenue and Grove Avenue.
"Witnesses saw a man stomping on the head of the victim numerous times," says Detective Kevin Shields of Tauranga police. "A police foot patrol was moving through the crowd to intervene. The offender ran across the road, to the main Mount Beach where he was located and arrested."
The victim was seen staggering through the crowd after the assault towards Banks Avenue. "He was heavily bleeding and may have lost a couple of teeth in the attack," says Detective Shields.
"We'd like the victim to contact us so the appropriate support can be offered.
"It's also important the victim seeks appropriate medical attention as his injuries could be quite severe," says Detective Shields.
Police are also interested to hear from anyone who witnessed this unprovoked assault.
Please call Tauranga Police Station, 07 577 4300, to speak to Detective Kevin Shields.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.