The most serious alcohol-fueled brawl in Queenstown over the weekend saw two men fighting in the middle of a street, with one receiving a "roundhouse kick to the head" which required hospital attention.
Acting Sergeant Jason Reid, of Queenstown, said yesterday an "extremely drunk" 35-year-old Australian living in the resort allegedly punched a 22-year-old Irishman in the face about 4.45am.
An Englishman who was with the punched man intervened and the Australian also allegedly punched him in the face.
A brawl involving all three erupted and the Australian and the Irishman allegedly carried on fighting outside the restaurant in the middle of Camp St, Acting Sgt Reid said.
The Englishman ran outside to find his associate and delivered "one roundhouse kick to the Australian's head and knocked him out cold".
The tourists fled but police found them a short distance away and arrested them. Acting Sergeant Reid said the Irishman was charged with common assault and the Englishman was charged with injuring with intent to injury.
The Australian was taken to Lakes District Hospital by St John Queenstown ambulance. He was treated for a large 12cm contusion to the left side of his head, plus minor cuts and swelling to his face, ear and head.
The Australian was released from hospital yesterday about 9.30am, then arrested and charged with three counts of assault. The men are expected to appear in the Queenstown District Court on March 26.
