Police are investigating a serious assault on a taxi driver in Palmerston North, and a member of the public who came to his aid, and are seeking the public's help

Officers were called to The Square in the central city, around 2am today.

Police say the taxi driver will require surgery - and are commending the members of the public who went to his aid.

A 25-year-old man is due to appear in the Palmerston North District on Thursday, charged with assault with intent to injuring, injuring with intent to injure and assaulting Police.

Police want to hear from any witness who they have not yet spoken too.