A person was taken to Christchurch Hospital in a serious condition following an assault at a backpackers in New Brighton on Saturday night.

A police spokesman told chrislynchmedia.com the assault on Union Street was reported shortly before 9.30PM.

A St John spokesman said it was notified and attended with two ambulances and a rapid response unit.

“Our crews assessed and treated one patient who was transported to Christchurch Hospital in a serious condition.”

A concerned resident, who asked not to be named, said a large number of police officers responded to the backpackers near the corner of Union Street and Beresford Street.

She said detectives remained at the property for much of the night and returned on Sunday.

The resident said she had seen police at the backpackers more than four times during the past week and believed problems associated with the property were affecting nearby residents and businesses.

“There are constant fights along Beresford Street and in the mall at night, and sometimes during the day.

“I grew up here. It is not a nice place to be at the moment. I can empathise with everyone’s situation, but not when it comes to intimidation and aggressive behaviour.”

She said people removed from the accommodation could become aggressive and believed the situation required attention.

“Whatever is going on over there is unsettling as a parent living locally.”

Police said no one had been arrested and enquires were ongoing.

The backpackers has been approached for comment.