Warning: This story contains graphic child abuse details.
A four-year-old boy in Hawke's Bay has sustained "some of the most severe injuries" a detective inspector has seen in his 30 years in the police.
The child was injured on January 29 in a Ramsey Crescent, Flaxmere property, and is in a serious condition in Starship Hospital.
Police say it's likely he will be "severely disabled and brain-damaged" if he survives.
"We would urge people to do the right thing by this child and help us work out exactly what's happened," Detective Inspector Mike Foster said in a statement.
"A number of people" are being spoken to in relation to the boy's injuries, but police would like anyone else to come forward who may be able to help.
"Please let us know anything that may help, no matter how small."
Information can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or to the Hawke's Bay CIB on 06 873 0524.
