Indian origin man Tarun Asthana dies after assault in New Zealand

Wellington – An Indian origin man in New Zealand died at a hospital Monday, two days after he was attacked by a sailor.

Tarun Asthana, 25, a trainee teacher, who had been on life support in Auckland City Hospital ever since he was attacked outside a fast food outlet early Nov 2 morning, died Monday, local media reported.

He suffered a serious head injury when he fell onto the pavement after being punched in the face by a sailor outside a McDonald’s outlet in downtown Queen Street.

He was reportedly surrounded by family and friends at the time of his death.

Asthana’s father arrived in Auckland late Sunday night and was able to say goodbye to his son.

Grenville David McFarland, 27, a sailor with the Royal New Zealand Navy, was arrested Sunday in connection with the case.

The brawl started after Asthana complimented the dress that McFarland’s girlfriend was wearing.

McFarland appeared in Auckland District Court Monday and was charged with assaulting Asthana.

He was given bail till Nov 15 but on strict conditions.

The victim was undergoing training at the University of Auckland to become a primary school teacher.