Three men have been charged with pushing a man off a balcony in Whakatane, following a three month police investigation.

The victim plunged off the Craic Hotel balcony on October 1 last year, suffering serious brain injuries.

He spent almost two months in intensive care.

A month after the incident the three offenders involved were charged with assault but police continued with their enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Darren Thomas said the trio will now appear in Whakatane District Court today, all charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

"Further charges are likely in relation to the conduct of these offenders during the course of this investigation."