A 24-year-old man arrested after entering three restaurants in Auckland's Albany and allegedly attacking customers is a Chinese national, police say.
The incident about 9pm last night on Corinthian Drive left three people in hospital with moderate to serious injuries.
Officers responded to multiple calls from the Albany area advising of several patrons of three restaurants being assaulted.
The man, who was arrested at the scene, has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm but police have warned further charges are expected.
Police allege the 24-year-old struck customers across three Albany restaurants with a weapon. (Source: 1News)
He appeared in the North Shore District Court late this morning, and will reappear later today.
Waitematā East Area Commander Inspector Stefan Sagar says the alleged attacks aren't racially motivated.
"The man charged over this matter, who is a Chinese national, is appearing in the North Shore District Court today and we are not seeking anyone else in relation to this incident.
"Our Ethnic Liaison Officers are in the area and will be available to speak to the communities impacted by this incident."
Last night police said three people were taken to hospital with moderate to serious injuries.
A spokesperson for North Shore Hospital told 1News earlier today two patients remain in a stable condition with minor injuries.
They said another patient was admitted to Auckland City Hospital.
The hospital said there is no known link to the lockdown of North Shore Hospital late yesterday as the police have arrested a suspect in relation to that event.
'Shocked, scared' - Witnesses describe scene
Friends were catching up in the Maya Hotpot restaurant when they said the alleged attacker walked in, carrying an axe. They said it was initially covered by his jacket.
They described the alleged attacker as a "random guy" and said he had entered the restaurant calmly. His demeanour changed when he attacked, they said, as he began cursing in Chinese.
The friends told 1News they thought their group had been attacked as they were sitting closest to the door.
One of the friends was taken to hospital after the alleged attack, while another said they had managed to block a blow.
Asked how they were feeling, one of the friends said they were "shocked, scared".
The other said the area was normally "quite a safe and peaceful place".
The friends later learnt the man had allegedly attacked people at two other restaurants.
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