The man had improved to be in a stable condition in Dunedin Hospital by yesterday afternoon, the hospital’s duty manager said, and was expected to be discharged in the next few days.
A police spokesman said on Saturday the man was found unconscious outside the Dunedin Social Club bar and restaurant, on the corner of Princes St and the Octagon about 3.15am that day.
"A 20-year-old man was found unresponsive after being assaulted and falling to the ground.
"He was transported to Dunedin Hospital where he is being treated for head injuries.
Police confirmed they had completed their forensic examination of the scene of the incident yesterday.
No arrests had been made or charges laid as of last night.
The owner of a business in the vicinity of the incident, who declined to be named, said he was concerned about the increasing level of violence in the area.
"I’d suggest that it happens more now than it ever used to. That’s really worrying.
"The area is more dangerous.
"The amount of drugs and alcohol that are consumed nowadays is more than what it ever used to be.
"People just make stupid decisions."
He did not know what the circumstances of the incident were, but believed something needed to change to make the area safe again for patrons.
He believed the Octagon would have been busy at that time and hoped witnesses would come forward.
"There would have been plenty of witnesses", he said.
