Assault victim transferred to Wellington

Nelson police have today had the opportunity to speak with the victim of a vicious assault which took place early on Saturday morning.

Brent William Powell, 48, suffered severe head injuries in the attack but was able to speak briefly with Nelson detectives this morning before being transferred to Wellington Hospital by air ambulance.

Detective Pat Nally said police were still appealing to members of the public who were in the Tasman/Hardy Sts area shortly after midnight Friday and who may have noticed something, to come forward.

Mr Powell lay unconscious for about seven hours before being found by a passing jogger. His condition today is described as "fair".