A 23-year-old man was hospitalised after he was attacked with a crossbow at 3am on Sunday at a remote address in Kahutara, South Wairarapa.
Police say three men aged 18, 18 and 23 were confronted by a fourth man who fired a crossbow which struck the head of one of the group.
The crossbow bolt penetrated the 23-year-old man’s skull and he was taken to Wairarapa Hospital for immediate treatment.
Police said the serious assault occurred after a confrontation at a remote address at Kahutara near Lake Ferry.
The victim is currently in Wellington Hospital ICU where his status remains serious but stable.
Police have spoken to several witnesses and conducted a number of scene examinations.
A crossbow was recovered during one of those searches.
All four men were known to each other.
The assault is not gang-related and police are confident there is no ongoing risk to the public.
A 21-year-old man has been arrested and is currently charged with assault while the full circumstances of the event are investigated.
He was due to appear in the Masterton District Court on Monday.
Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to their investigation.
“I am very comfortable that we have spoken to all of the primary witnesses and that there is no risk to the public now or in the future from this group,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Barry Bysouth
hi Maureen