The former mayor of Whanganui says he was assaulted at a bar in the town on Friday night, sustaining damage to his right eye, cheekbone and mouth.
Michael Laws says he was attacked from behind by a man, who then fled.
Mr Laws says witnesses told him the man was Pakeha, and wearing a green and black hoodie.
He says the police have launched an investigation into the assault, which he says was entirely unprovoked.
