A 27-year-old man has been arrested and charged after a serious assault in Christchurch early this morning.

A police spokeswoman told chrislynchmedia.com emergency services were called to Oxford Terrace at 2.30am after a man was king hit by another man.

The victim was knocked unconscious and was in a critical condition when transported to hospital.

Chrislynchmedia.com understands the victim hit his head on a concrete pavement.

He is currently reported to be in a serious but stable condition, the police spokeswoman said.

A St John spokeswoman said they 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.”

 The 27-year-old offender was located by police in Manchester Street a short time later and taken into custody.

 He has been charged with injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and is scheduled to appear in Christchurch District Court today.