A man is understood to have been beaten up in Tauranga's central business district this afternoon.

Witnesses have told SunLive that a man was seen walking on The Strand, near the waka, at around 2.30pm.

Police are investigating a potential assault on The Strand this afternoon. Photos: Supplied.

'He appeared to be drunk, but when he got closer he had blood all over his face. He looked a mess,” says one person.

Another witness says she saw a group of people near the railway tracks before the man began stumbling onto the road.

Police are speaking with the man now to ascertain exactly what has happened.

People with information about the incident can contact Tauranga Police on: 07 577 4300.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via Crimestoppers on: 0800 555 111.