Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed or filmed the assault at Bayfair Shopping Centre, Arataki at 4.40pm on Friday, May 3.

A 16-year-old female has been arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and is due to reappear in Tauranga District Court next week. 

The victim remains in hospital in a stable condition.

"Police acknowledge that this incident will have been unsettling and traumatic for staff and shoppers," says a police spokesperson.

"They are being offered support and we appreciate the assistance they have provided.

"This was a busy time of day at the shopping complex and we know that many people may have video recordings showing the assault and / or the offender."

Police ask if anyone has a recording or any other information which has not yet been shared with Police, please get in touch via 105 or online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” and referencing file number 240503/3012.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.