An Oamaru man was rushed to hospital on Thursday after being knocked unconscious.
Acting Sergeant Blair Corlet, of Oamaru, said police were called to a Weaver St address about 2.30pm and found a 45-year-old man on the ground in the driveway.
He said the victim was punched, allegedly by a 29-year-old Oamaru man.
He said the two men barely knew each other, but the younger man took exception to something the victim said.
Sgt Corlet said everyone involved in the incident had been drinking alcohol.
He said the police wanted to assure the public police were actively working to reduce alcohol-fuelled violence in the area.
The 29-year-old man would appear in Oamaru District Court on May 18, charged with injuring with intent.
The victim was later discharged from hospital.
