Police in Waikato say a man has been critically injured while trying to defuse an alcohol-fueled row over an arm-wrestling competition.
They say staff from two companies in Hamilton ended up drinking at a Chartwell bar on Friday night, when the competition went in an unexpected direction, and words were exchanged.
A businessman who stepped in to cool things down was hit in the head by a heavy glass beer jug that had been hurled. The 55-year-old was on Monday in an induced coma after surgery for a critical brain injury.
Police said CCTV footage had been useful in identifying people but they still want anyone who was at the bar and has not yet been interviewed to come forward.
They said the incident highlights the need for those holding work functions to make sure there are non-alcoholic drinks available, and make sure everyone gets home safely.
A 23-year-old man will appear in the Hamilton District Court charged with wounding with reckless disregard.
