A Christchurch man has been arrested after a man was hospitalised in a critical condition following an incident early today. 

Emergency services rushed to the scene on Oxford Terrace at 2.30am after the victim had apparently been punched. 

“The victim was knocked unconscious and was in a critical condition when transported to hospital,” said a police spokesperson. 

Hato Hone St John were alerted just before 2am and responded with two ambulances, two rapid response units and one manager. 

“Our crews assessed and treated one patient who was transported to Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition,” said a spokesperson. 

The victim is now in Christchurch Hospital in a serious but stable condition. 

Oxford Terrace, otherwise known as “the strip”, is a hub featuring bars and restaurants, with nightclubs nearby. 

A 27-year-old man was found by police nearby on Manchester St a short time after the incident and taken into custody. 

He faces a charge of injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and will appear in Christchurch District Court today. 

Katie Oliver is a Christchurch-based Multimedia Journalist and breaking news reporter.