Eastern Waikato Police investigating the serious injuries inflicted to a man's face are still seeking the identities of a man and a woman seen leaving the scene of the incident early yesterday morning.
Detective Sergeant Martyn Hughes of the Thames-Coromandel CIB said a 23-year-old Auckland man required surgery after he suffered critical injuries in the incident on the grass verge outside the Beach Backpackers Lodge on Buffalo Beach Rd, Whitianga, about 5.15am.
"The man's injuries were initially diagnosed as being critical however staff at Waikato Hospital were able to save him and he discharged himself prior to being transported to Auckland Hospital by ambulance for surgery.
"The man and a companion were not cooperative with Police and we're still seeking to establish what has occurred."
Mr Hughes said Police still wanted to hear from a man and a woman seen leaving the scene who Police believe could help with their enquiries.
"We'd like to speak to the couple who were described as being aged between 30-40 who were seen walking along Buffalo Beach Rd towards Jackman Ave shortly after the incident."
Mr Hughes said a number of people had already come forward following Police requests for information including one person who provided a photograph but that image had proven too dark to be of use.
"So we're still keen to hear from anyone who may have seen what happened and anyone who may have photographed what was going on."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Mr Hughes at the Whitianga Police Station on 07 866 4000. Alternatively information can be left anonymously on the CrimeStoppers crimeline, 0800 555111.
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