Man stabbed at McDonald's counter

A man was stabbed at a McDonald's restaurant in front of a young family.

The 18-year-old victim was ordering food at the outlet in Eastgate Mall, Christchurch, when two males approached him, and following a conversation he was stabbed with a knife by a third man.

"A man with two young children, probably both under four years old, one a toddler, was standing close by at the counter," police spokeswoman Maggie Leask said.

"Police would like to speak to this man about what he saw happen."

Ms Leask, who said the incident happened at about 7pm on Saturday, called for any witnesses to come forward.

Ms Leask said the victim was taken to hospital, and an 18-year-old man was arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and assault with a weapon.

The alleged offender appeared in the Christchurch District Court this morning and entered no plea. His next appearance is on July 2.

Constable Michelle Johnston, who is investigating the case, said the victims and alleged offender are from two rival factions of youths.

Ms Johnston said the two groups can be identified by their colours but she would not identify the groups as giving them publicity "built them up".

Police allege the same man attacked another teenager on a bus half an hour before the incident at McDonald's.

The victim of that attack was not hurt.