Police officers at the scene of an incident at Westfield mall in Newmarket. Photo: Felix Walton
A 24-year-old man has been charged with aggravated wounding after a serious assault in Newmarket, police say.
The incident occurred on Broadway, near Westfield Mall, about 2.35pm, and left a security guard in a critical condition.
Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Friend, of Auckland City CIB, said security guards had approached a man when he produced a knife.
"One of the guards has sustained a serious stab injury to the neck as a result.
"At this point, we have established they were trying to engage with the man in relation to an earlier incident."
Newmarket Business Association chief executive Mark Knoff-Thomas said the victim was one of his staff members.
One of his security team had been helping police identify and arrest a man when they were stabbed in the neck, he said.
A 24-year-old man was arrested at the scene and will appear in the Auckland District Court tomorrow, charged with aggravated wounding. Police said they would be opposing the man's bail.
Earlier, police cordoned the area, near the intersection with Mortimer Pass, and said an investigation was underway.
"The victim has sustained serious injuries and is receiving medical treatment," Friend said.
In a statement, Hato Hone St John said one patient in a critical condition had been transported to Auckland City Hospital.
It was notified of an incident on Broadway, Newmarket, at 2.38pm. One ambulance, one rapid response vehicle, and one operations manager attended.
"Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to what has unfolded this afternoon," Friend said.
"I would like to acknowledge the quick actions of security staff this afternoon given what has occurred."
Police asked any witnesses to contact 105, using reference number P060688447.
A security guard at the scene told a RNZ journalist that the mall would put out a statement.
The bus stop at the mall has been closed.
Newmarket security guards 'local heroes' - local MP
In response, MP for Epsom David Seymour said the behaviour was "unacceptable".
"My thoughts go out to the victim of this senseless act and his family.
"Newmarket's security guards are local heroes. They calmly and professionally put themselves in danger every day to protect Newmarket's businesses and visitors.
"I urge people to support the police by responding to their call for information."
