Both the alleged assailant and the victim in Thursday's stabbing in central Auckland are teenagers.
Police are still at the scene on Anzac Ave, where a young woman received serious injuries at about 2:30pm.
She's just 18 years old - and the man believed to have stabbed her is the same age.
"This was not a random attack and the two people involved are known to each other," says Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Armstrong.
"Police were on the scene quickly, and there is no ongoing risk to the public."
Eye witness Daniel Coombe told Newshub he chased the assailant as far as Customs St East. He says the man dropped what he believed to be the victim's handbag - inside of which was a large knife.
Police were seen holding a knife that fits that description at the scene.
The woman was taken to Auckland Central Hospital, where she was still in a critical condition on Thursday evening. Her family has been notified and are receiving support from police.
The 18-year-old man is currently in police custody.
Officers will complete a scene investigation on Thursday evening.
Det Sen Sgt Armstrong thanked the public for their help. Anyone with further information is urged to call the Operation Pompano investigation team on (09) 302 6557.
Newshub.
