A man found with critical injuries and “covered in blood” in a North Shore stabbing event is now in a stable condition. 

Police have revealed they believe this was not a “random incident” and the victim is recovering in hospital. 

Yesterday, armed police swarmed the North Shore after a critically injured man “completely drenched in blood” was found with stab wounds 

North Shore Area Commander Inspector Stefan Sagar said they would be speaking with the victim “in the coming days”. 

“From what we have established so far in our inquiries, we do not believe this is a random incident. 

“We are continuing to make inquiries into information about a vehicle that left the area, but at this point we do not have further information to release.” 

He said police would be visible in the Birkenhead community today as they canvas the area. 

Saga thanked the Birkenhead community for the assistance during the investigation. 

“I know when these events take place in our communities that this can be unsettling, but we believe it is an isolated event and Police are continuing to work hard to identify and hold this offender to account.” 

Earlier, Police said a man was located with critical injuries on Birkenhead Ave by a member of the public just after 2pm. 

“At this early stage we believe the man has sustained stab wounds and he has been taken to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition,” Waitematā field crime manager Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison said. 

Armed police guard Birkenhead Ave while a scene examination takes place. Photo / Sylvie Whinray 

Armed police could be seen blocking off Birkenhead Ave, with emergency tape stretched across both sides of the road. 

“We drove past when [it] just happened. Man completely drenched in blood on the ground, made me so upset to see. Really hope he’s okay but [it] doesn’t look good,” one witness recalled on social media. 

The Herald understands the incident occurred outside early childhood centre Next Generation Birkenhead. 

In an email sent to parents, the childcare centre said due to an “active lockdown in the area” they were required to be escorted by police to pick up their child. 

”Be assured that there is a heavy police presence, but your child’s safety is our top priority. They are safe, happy, and unaware of the ongoing situation,” the email read. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 105 using the reference number 250204/5489.